There is no easy answer to infidelity. Each situation and the couple involved are unique and the reasons for being unfaithful would have to be explored. Lets begin with First Time Cheaters.

Is he truly sorry for his actions?
The fact is, you know him best and if his remorse is genuine, you will know it in your heart and that will be your first stepping stone towards forgiveness.

Is he willing to take whatever steps he must to earn your trust again?
The man who is truly sorry will do whatever it takes to put his marriage right. He will want counseling and will actively seek ways to try and undo some of the damage he has caused. His life will become an open book so that you won't have to worry about secrets. It is easier to forgive someone who's actions make it clear that he wants and loves you more than anything on this earth.

Chronic cheaters are a different story. The mere fact that they are re-offenders makes them high risk. Forgiving this man may be something you'll have to do over and over. Are you willing to live your life like this? Never knowing for sure if he is being faithful or not? If this man is seeking your forgiveness time and time again then I seriously doubt that he was sorry in the first place. Staying with this guy makes you a victim of humiliation. You will never change him but you can change yourself.

Overall, I think forgiveness is therapeutic and helps us deal with the pain and let it go. Holding on to the anger and resentment only causes more grief and leaves us feeling stuck in a cycle of doubt and betrayal.
But remember, forgiving someone doesn't necessarily mean that you have to stay in the relationship. Sometimes we need to forgive so that we can move forward with our lives and begin again.

Learn more about this author, Dawna Sinclair.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Should cheating husbands be forgiven??
We want to hear your view. Write now!