The best remedy for separated couples

On the latest survey on living and income conditions released by the National Statistics Office, a pessimist would say seven per cent of marriages have failed. An optimist would be satisfied that 93 per cent of marriages are still going steady. A realist looks at both and tries to help failed marriages to heal and steady marriages to become stronger.

I have come across individuals included in those seven per cent who sincerely want to heal their marriage. In general, it is possible for separated couples to reconcile. We have had separated couples who reunited and are still faring well together.

Separation always leaves the door open for reunion. As a matter of fact, both civil and ecclesiastical law prescribe that legally separated couples can reunite just by going to live together again. As simple as that. Where there is a will, there is a way. If one of them is willing, we are already half way. How can you get the other?

There are a number of steps to follow, but patience and time will play an important role in reconciliation. Some type of contact with the other spouse helps. Taking advice from people who genuinely desire their reconciliation has had its good effects too. The worst thing one can resort to is to enter into another relationship. We have many separated persons who have wisely refused any new relationship.

Finally, from my experience, I would suggest prayer. God can do in a second what we cannot do in a year. Nothing is impossible to him. Every day Jesus is waiting for all of us in our Catholic churches to help us in all our needs. Forgiveness and reconciliation are very dear to him.

Separated couples will benefit best in every aspect only from reconciliation.