Bittersweet 16

Dear LOML,

While I do regret an incredible number of things that I have done, I will never regret giving everything I am to you and I will never regret marrying you almost 16 years ago.

I am still grappling with the "I was in a relationship I had no business being in", even though you said it was a general statement and that it had nothing to do with me specifically. I am also still trying to reconcile, in my own mind, how deeply in love we were then and how we always said we had found our soul's mate in each other.

If I could take away from you all the hurt, memories, and shame buried so deeply inside of you, I would. Having always attributed your painful memories to, aside from your parents, your military service, I was stunned to learn there was just so much more. It was definitely something I never saw coming, and something I wish you never had to endure.

Since you've been in retreat mode for the past few weeks, I find it nearly impossible to not worry about your well-being. Please know this: I am here for you if and when you need me and that that is something that will never change.

Happy (almost) 16th Anniversary, LOML. ISLYWAMYHAS and IWMYAOA. Would you DNITKTAS again with me?

For all of my life, I will love you.

TLOYL (maybe?)