Some of us appear to have an above-average talent for finding ourselves in unfulfilling relationships.
Our unions might begin with a lot of hope — but in time, problems set in: a lack of affection, an absence of intimacy, an emotional chill, affairs.
When these issues rear their heads, most of us would know to think that — however lovely the start might have been — it's time to leave, and fairly fast.
Someone who has messed us around as the partner has, or been as cold, or as sadistic, does not deserve a second or indeed any chance.
But for others of us, this is when we begin to show our distinctive colors.
Hope springs eternal.
Yes, the partner may presently be somewhat disappointing but soon they may recover.
Admittedly, they have become hugely unkind in many ways, but they did apologize nicely last week (before repeating their offense) and so there is a decent chance — we believe — that things will be on an upswing over the longer term.
To outside observers, the faith that we have in our partner can appear quasi-religious.
Why do we keep giving our unreliable companion so much leeway?
