For the people that are Hopeless Romantics, I think it is harder on them to live a single life. Something deep within them cries out to be with another, they want to share all their hopes, their dreams, they love to give (but also to receive), to have someone to hold onto at night & wake up to in the mornings.
I don't feel this makes someone weak. We all want what we want in life. We all know the desires of our hearts, don't we- if we are honest with ourselves. When I could not conceive, I was the most unsettled woman on the face of the planet, my whole being cried out for more children. Had I not went out of my way to pursue my dream of being a mother, test after test after test -even getting a laparoscopy (surgery) to see why I couldn't conceive after my 1st child, I may not have my last 5. I would probably still be unsettled today. (just my own little analogy). Nothing wrong with pursuing what you want, if that is looking for another woman - if/when you decide it is "done" in your marraige.
But so true, NEVER jump too quickly, too many rebound love affairs that could rip your heart out. Make sure the next time around -DATE MANY , take your sweet time !! Don't ever settle for less than you dream of, what you know you need to be fullfilled. But of coarse, use reason here, you are no young spring chicken anymore (as my Grandmother use to term the young).
Do not let FEAR of not finding someone stop you -LIfe is truly a RISK in everything we choose to set our heart and our feet too. Isn't it !? Love is the biggest risk of all. If it has been lost or gone at home for years of striving, desperation & pain, it is surely a risk worth taking on someone else, isn't it?
Never let go of your dreams. We only get one life -that we can "prove" anyway.
It often appears when we have "given up" or at the times we least expect an answer, it comes too. When I could not conceive after 6 long dragging years, I was scheduled for invitro (would have cost alot of $$), I was supposed to call the Gyno when I got my monthy, it never came ! I was gloriously pregnant ! Talk about the last minute. And all fell ionto place but had I not pursued relentlessly what I wanted, where would I be today .
Continue the faith. MIke, you will know when enough is enough, I know you recently bought Athol's book for one last shot at this , to revive your wife . If the single life is looking more & more inviting, you have had enough of the rejection and pain, chances are this is where you will find your freedom and NEW wings to soar.
I wish you all the best.