A couple is grappling with how to navigate their relationship after discovering an ex-partner’s struggles with addiction and a complicated past.
A man wrote to Slate’s sex advice column, seeking guidance on how to deal with his wife’s lingering feelings for her ex-husband, Joe, who has struggled with drug and alcohol addiction. Joe showed up at his son Patrick’s birthday party high, and the family stopped inviting him due to his erratic behavior. However, recently they discovered that Joe was still involved in their lives.
The man felt emasculated by Joe’s situation and considered physically confronting him to prove he’s a better man. However, Slate’s sex therapist Rich advised against this approach, citing that it would only create more chaos and drama for the family.
Rich suggested that the couple focus on their relationship instead of comparing themselves to an ex-partner. He emphasized that masculinity is not solely defined by physical attributes and that taking care of one’s family is a valuable trait. The therapist encouraged the man to consider seeking therapy to work through his feelings and find healthier ways to address the situation.
In another part of the column, a 42-year-old woman shared her struggles with severe anxiety and virginity. She’s hesitant to disclose this information to potential partners due to fear of rejection or judgment. Rich advised her to be honest about her anxieties while also being prepared for varying reactions from others. He suggested that she focus on finding someone who accepts and supports her, rather than trying to fit into societal norms.
Source: https://slate.com/advice/2024/12/penis-envy-big-large-wife-ex-husband-advice.html