A Nobler Path

In crumbling marriage after years I find
One partner changes but one never will.
Encouragement scorned by a stubborn mind
Becomes frustration and then hopeless nil.

Though in the same house we live worlds apart
Our union purely pretense but for two
Sweet children that we love with all our heart.
Our bond is broken. They're our only glue.

Divorce would be the easy path to walk
To flee from long and tortured loneliness
Yet for a daughter’s trusting eyes and talk
I stay despite profound unhappiness.

For years I will endure a backward spouse
My only joy my daughter and my son
Till they can choose to stay or leave the house
Then with this futile marriage I'll be done.

I met a smart and charming lady who
Did shatter careful decades' faithfulness.
I loved her deeply but I lost her due
To anguish for my children's happiness.

She woke hot passions I thought long shut down.
Desires I thought had died so long ago
For tight embrace and sharing common ground
A face that brightens when I say hello.

I ask you who would be the better man:
He who departs at trouble's slightest sight?
He who stays to complete what he began?
Which would you want to keep you warm at night?

If I should seek another lover here
Please don't condemn or label me a fake
I could abandon those I hold most dear
Instead I choose a nobler path to take.