Hi! I am a single mom and divorce was the worst thing I could ever do for my son. Even though he has reasonably adjusted, his image of what a marriage could and should be like is shattered. ALL MARRIAGES will go through difficult times. Your children will see how you handle your difficult times in a marriage and often times they will repeat the same thing. So, if they see you give up then they will most likely do the same. Not to mention there are years of research studies that show that ultimately it IS the children who pay the price of a divorce, financially, emotionally, physically and psychologically. Yes, it effects young children the most but even grown children of parents who are divorcing will be effected.
Have you tried Marriage Education classes? Marriage Works! Ohio is based out of Dayton, Ohio, not too far from you. They have several classes to choose from for married couples. Because of how far you live and that you are thinking about a divorce, I recommend the Divorce Prevention Program they have called Prepare/Enrich or they have a one day workshop called Family Works One Day. The One Day Seminar meets on a Saturday, 9-3:30, and it is fun and educational. All their programs are free because they are federally funded. There is no religious content, just relationship changing information that will take your marriage to a whole new level! Their toll free number is 866-548-3271. If they can't help you, maybe they know of more marriage education programs in your area.
In all Marriage Works! Ohio's classes you will learn new communication techniques, conflict resolution skills, learn each other's love languages, discovery each other's strengths using a personality assessment, and build goals together. They offer a fresh look at what may appear to be a dying situation. I recommend you give that a try because it will help you figure out if it is worth it to stay with your man.
I sure wish this was around for me when I was going through a divorce. I know it would have made a difference! I went through their program for singles so that I will know better what to do in the future.
I wish you luck. I hope you don't give up.