The first reaction most people will have to this question is to answer “No” without hesitation but the question still remains, is there any way that a relationship can survive after one partner has been unfaithful?
I guess the proper answer would be: It depends. There’s no justification for infidelity but some circumstances can make it forgivable. It also depends on the parties to the relationship and how determined they are to forge past the incident.
If a relationship is to survive the indiscretions of a partner, the reason for cheating in the first place must be uncovered. The erring partner must be honest and open about what led to the affair.
Both partners must also be patient. The bonds of trust, affection and commitment upon which the relationship were originally founded must be rebuilt and this will take time.
The betrayed partner must be given time to heal and express their hurt and decide if the indiscretion can be forgiven.
Above all, the survival of a relationship after an act of unfaithfulness depends on how committed the couple are to the relationship and how determined they are to stay with each other no matter the odds.
