“I don’t love you anymore. I’m not sure I ever did.”

His words came at me like a speeding fist, like a sucker punch, yet somehow in that moment I was able to duck. And once I recovered and composed myself, I managed to say, “I don’t buy it.” Because I didn’t.

It's a bit of an oldie now, but Laura Munson's New York Times article on the unconventional steps she took to save her marriage is still popular, and for good reason. Munson's recognition of her husband's inner turmoil and her refusal to let him drag her down -- and the way she stood up for her children's well-being -- teach some principles worth taking to heart. I'm sure they wouldn't work for every marriage, but these principles just might end up saving a few.

And though I don't think the author is coming at this from a Christian point of view, there's something here for Christians as well as nonbelievers. Actually, it sounds like a practical example of turning the other cheek while still maintaining one's dignity and self-respect.