You Can't Unknow What You Know

January 6, 2003

Question

Dr Love,

My husband and I have been married for a about 5 months but have been together for about three and half years. My husband has been married before but he says that the marriage was a mistake and that is why it only lasted for 6 months. I have asked a lot of questions about his ex and know quite a bit about his point of view of the breakup.

The problem is that whenever we argue and he says something about me that he might have said about her I get very insecure and feel like maybe he will divorce me too. I think I know too much about his past now but I can't unknow what I know. What do I do?


Answer

I can't imagine why you would want to unknow what you know. That knowledge is precious and I am going to show you how to use it to your advantage.

First of all, you know what he couldn't tolerate about his ex-wife's behavior and, so, when he likens you to his ex. you have every reason to worry. He left her, so why wouldn't he leave you. Don't deny the feelings, use them. Here's how.

Say, 'When you compare me to your ex. should I be worried that you're going to get rid of me to?' That simple question kills many birds with one stone. First, it addresses your own fears, rather than leave them to rattle around inside your head and heart; second, it encourages him to directly address what you're doing that 's bugging him.

The key for your husband is to talk and resolve issues with you. Since he seems to have a tendency to act (leaving his ex. rather than working his issues through) you need to keep him talking, not acting. I would also suggest that you read my book, Till Death Do Us Part (Unless I Kill You First), which will show you how to listen, understand, and resolve the issues that he presents.

- Doctor Love


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