Pete struggled for two or three years with just me and the Bishop aware of his problem, and it was getting worse. After a frustrating couple of weeks with repeated episodes, we hadn't been speaking much to each other for a few days. When we finally sat down to talk about it I told him that I felt it was time for him to talk to his dad, who is also a bishop. He said he had been having that same thought. It was a testament to me that even when we aren't behaving the way we should (Pete was giving in to temptation and I was angry) the Lord blesses us with promptings from the Holy Ghost to help us, because he loves us.
My husband did discuss it with his dad. It was painful and terrifying but his father was completely understanding and compassionate. Since that time he has made tremendous progress. I also have felt as if I'm not bearing this burden alone. Before, I felt tremendous pressure to be constantly supportive to Pete. Now I know that when I am feeling weak, he can turn to his dad for additional encouragement and support. His dad has given him blessings and calls him to check-in on a regular basis. He asks him direct questions and makes him accountable, all the while being loving and kind.
I am so grateful for my father-in-law's help. I hope that every couple can find other friends or family members to help them along the way. I am also grateful that Pete and I were able to listen to the promptings we felt and act on them even though we were both afraid to do so.
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