There is no way to make this "better," so I will not try. However, 43 years is a long time for anything, but especially to remain wed to a soulmate in an era when half of all marriages end in divorce: Nothing can diminish your life and family together. Children awe me in that respect; the ultimate example of two people LITERALLY sharing EVERYTHING, right down to DNA, constantly displaying much of both parents to everyone who sees them. Nature vs. nurture is almost moot when two people spend half a century raising a family together instead of just briefly "hooking up," then "dealing with the consequences." A genuine family is not just a tribute to its parents (though certainly that also) but, in real and powerful ways, ensures a large amount of both parents will go on long after they themselves are gone.

I am truly not offering cold comfort, just a reminder. My marriage is younger than RAFO; my wife and I are very unlikely to share 43 years together even if she never gets sick of me (and 95% of relationships is finding someone who sees enough good in you to tolerate your crap, so you and/or your wife must be a saint. ) So, hard as it may be to believe at the moment, I envy you. Ya'll had many moments, most unlike this one, and NOTHING can EVER take that away.

Be well, and know my thoughts and prayers are with you (and I still log on Skype daily as the only means to see my wife and child from across an ocean, so if you need/want to talk, you are welcome and encouraged but never obligated to give me a shout.)