I need to have someone tell me probably what I already know. I have been married to a person that has different values than me, get's fired from jobs because of his behavior and just does not get along with others.He has tried to change as well as devote their lives to God. Based on the past, this person has made several improvements. I have endured so much and now is in the marriage as a numb person who can offer no love for this person.My tolerance is now where the least little "setback he have" I am furious. Today, he was cruel when my daughter and I mentioned that another daughter did not make the basketball team. My daughter was very disturbed at his comments as well as I. So many of the daughters' friends come from a single parent home and I was trying to avoid this situation for my children. But he is pusing them away just as he did me. I want to protect my girls.I am depressed and humilated regarding his failures (some of them publicly known) and I throw myself into my kids lives in order to hide from my own.I need advice as to what my next step should be. He is manipulative so counseling does not work as it did not in the past.He is also a lawyer so he knows how to tie things up in court. Years ago I introduced him to this website and it also did not make a difference. I know I should file for divorce. Even my old minister told me to leave him.

Strong men tend to be narcysystic (spelling?) They have trouble with empathy and/or the enjoyment of others. They often try to "con" the counselor and control the session. My husband is this way and our counselor has his number! My advice is if he's not willing to improve, that's his loss. Totally take charge of you and your life. Sounds like you and your girls are close. Great! If you don't already, start working out, make sure you have an exercise routine to make a better YOU! Get your hair done different, to match the new YOU! Eat healthy! If like me, I used to only think of my daughter and husband. I put me first now, daugher second. After all, I have to be great to make her feel great. Guess what? We started working out together, updating my look. If hubby likes it great...if not, too bad. He can join the positive world and positively want to make the marriage work or go solo. We hope to be at the marriage builder week-end in Orlando...good luck!

Narcissitic, I believe that is the spelling. I don't typically like to diagnois someone else, but that is the word that also came to my mind when reading your post.
look this personalitie up. There is lots of info on it.

Thank you for your encouraging words. I do try to improve my health and my appearance but at times I stop because I feel stuck. I will begin again . I am planning a retreat for us during the school break which will draw me and my girls closer. It is unforunate that I have to detach but it is a survival type situation. Thank you.