I just read your post and reply post on Long Term Affairs...<p>Just off the top of my head...<p>I just felt sorry for you. Actually I feel sorry for us all.<p>Like you, I never dreamed I would be married. I used to argue against marriage. In my mind marriage was an economic contract and the 'best' way in which to have children.<p>Perhaps for me that has been the underlying theme for me as to why I have failed my marriage.<p>However...in my journey the last six months I think it comes down to maturity and, yes, values.<p>Values do serve their purpose. But, unfortunately we live in a world where not all societies and groups share the same values...all of our children are not aculturized the same...as you have shown.<p>So what to do Katie Scarlett? What to do? Are you a Believer? I was but my faith was not strong until this. I have had to ask what does the Supreme Power want for my life? for my marriage? <p>There has to be a more right way than a more wrong way...otherwise why would there be so much pain...pain only comes from hurting...from being broken...<p>I think, Katie Scarlett, that you are seeking answers too...that you know, from your comments, that parts of your life have not been quite right.<p>I wish you peace.

I believe in God but don't believe in Jesus as "prototype." As an archetype I think his presence on earth is rather powerful.<p>As far as "what to do?" I have NO idea. I am searching for answers for myself. It is still so hard not to see the world in terms of "I."<p>People who know me intimately are really shocked sometiems at my values. But I am the reflection of my parents. That is not an excuse. Just a fact. As I stuggle to make a way for myself EVERYONE has simplstic answers. But when ever you take away a behavior, you have to have something to replace it.<p>My instinct is to seek for self. PLUS, I have been RICHLY rewarded for seeking for self. And thought insane for wanted more than what suits me.<p>It's a mad, mad, mad, mad world!