Can you love someone and still split up?

[recklesslove]

DH and I have been through a very rocky patch and we’ve come to the conclusion that we would probably be happier apart because our lives are pulling in different directions and we have both changed substantially since we met age 20 and 21!

However, we both love each other a great deal. We respect each other and there have been lots of positives over the years. If we split it’ll be as amicable as we can make it.

So can you love someone deeply but separation is best in the long run. Or does the fact that we love each other mean we can, and should, over come any obstacles?

I'm asking the same question myself reckless. Hoping for wise words from Mumsnet to help me order my thoughts.

I believe sometimes you can love and leave people yes. I loved the ather of my kids, but he didn't treat me right so I left. Doesn't mean I don't love him. Whilst he thinks I hate him for doing it, I don't. Sometimes people change, or things don't work for you both. Who knows what the future holds, but if it's not working in my opinion it's not working, you will always love each other - I have love for all my exes.

I think you can, I loved my ex very much and still do but it just wasn't right we are much better apart and have remained friends

Yes. I love my ex and know he loves me. We just wanted different things now the kids are older.

Yes. Love is an amazing thing; but it doesn't conquer everything else. If you're not happy, or you're not being treated right, love shouldn't be a reason to stay.

Just split nicely and make it as easy on everyone as possible.

Thank you all. You’ve all said what I thought you would!
I do think the whole love conquers all is a little bit too fairy tale to be realistic.

Going against the grain but love
Is a tricky thing. True love doesn't come along everyday.
So I believe it worth hanging on to. Of course violence and abuse should never be tolerated. The rest is just details.