Marriage is supposed to be a partnership built on love, respect, and mutual value. But what happens when one partner knows you are stranded in the marriage—when he knows you have nowhere to go and no backup plan? Unfortunately, that knowledge can give him the audacity to disrespect you without fear of consequences.
This is why some men cheat without remorse. They not only engage in affairs but even get angry when confronted. You catch him in the act, and instead of shame, he has the courage to ask you to “do your worst.” But what really is your worst?
For many women in this situation, the options are limited. You cry, give him the silent treatment, or withhold intimacy. Yet, these very reactions are often twisted against you. He blames you for his actions, claiming your withdrawal pushed him into the arms of someone else.
The harsh truth—one that is uncomfortable to admit—is that by being unable to act, you’ve become an enabler of his behavior. You are not valued in his eyes, and he feels no reason to stop, no risk to weigh, no respect to maintain.
Ask yourself:
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Why should he stop if there are no consequences?
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Why should he respect you if you don’t demand respect?
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Why should he care if your silence shields him?
Sadly, many women can’t answer these questions. Instead, they retreat into their roles as mothers, focusing solely on their children while quietly withering away into emotional oblivion and marital irrelevance.
If this sounds like your reality, understand this: you need help, and you need liberation. Professional guidance can provide tools to reclaim your self-worth, but the first and most important step is one only you can take—deciding to liberate yourself.
Your value as a woman and as a partner should never be up for debate. Respect starts with how you position yourself. Don’t remain stranded. Take back your power.
