COVERED Edition 4 Issue 2 | Page 36

ADVICE_______________________________________________________________________ kind; this may only put the so-called “nail in the coffin” of your relationship. If you’re ego- dystonic with cheating, you may only shame yourself by your retribution. 8. Remember the good times. Try not to forget the pleasant experiences you shared with your partner. Waxing nostalgic sometimes encourages a greater effort to save a relationship. 9. The victimized spouse should never pursue the partner’s lover. The idea is to de- triangulate the lover not bring the lover deeper into your relationship. The problem lies between the two spouses and should be kept there. Besides, confronting your partner’s lover might prove to be dangerous. 10. Keep the lines of communication open. Because our society seems to hold a certain fascination with affairs, it’ll be hard to escape the past. Television, movies, music and even some random gossip will serve as reminders of your trauma. It’s important for each partner to remain patient and empathic, and to continue to allow for productive discussion on the topic as the need arises. Repression may enable a festering of the problem. If you and your partner can successfully negotiate these steps perhaps each of you will forgive yourselves and one another for the trauma of the affair. It won’t be easy—it’ll take maximum effort on both sides to save the relationship—and only the two of you can decide whether it’s worth the effort or not. You and your husband should have a clear and honest conversation, listen and try to understand why he was disloyal, be firm and let him know that it can’t happen again. May Allah make it easy for you. Aameen. We appreciate any feedback. Do you have any questions or are seeking some advice, clarity or an objective opinion on life situations? PM, DM, EMAIL, WHATSAPP (with the word ‘ADVICE OR COVERED’ in the subject. ALL SUBMISSIONS WILL REMAIN ANONYMOUS