{2 mins to read} My last two articles talked about apology and forgiveness. This article is about reconciliation, which can take place between spouses, friends, or colleagues at work. It can even take place between divorcing spouses, as they may want to maintain a cordial or even amicable relationship after the divorce.

However, in this essay, we are going to look at reconciliation, what it is and what it is not. At the end will be a link to the steps a couple might take in order to reconcile and avoid divorce. Making a marriage work can be challenging, especially when one spouse is considering divorce. It takes time and effort to rebuild a relationship, but if both spouses are committed to making the marriage work, reconciliation is possible.

What is Reconciliation?

Reconciliation is the process of two people in conflict agreeing to make amends or come to a truce. Reconciliation is only possible if both parties are committed to restoring the broken relationship and making it work. 

4 Types of Reconciliation:

1. Deep Mutual Healing: this is the one we long for the most. It takes time as we grow and change to foster a deep healing in the relationship.

2. Shifting Expectations: either or both parties can change/revise their expectations. Whether or not the other party makes any significant changes, the relationship can still be opened up.

3. Agreeing to Disagree: neither party can convince the other that their view is the right one, but they might be able to find a common ground on which to build a new type of relationship.

4. Inner Resolution: in some circumstances, the other party is absent or hostile, and too damaged to make a reconciliation possible. If all your attempts at reconciliation fail, find a way to grieve for the relationship and restore peace within yourself.

What Reconciliation is Not?

One party putting pressure on the other to change. Reconciliation can only be achieved through reconciliation.

Below is a link to the steps you can take to save your marriage, or any conflict existing between you and another person.a joint effort.

Do Not Confuse Reconciliation With Forgiveness.

Forgiveness is the first step towards reconciliation, but reconciliation requires repentance from the offender. And even if that repentance is made, the offender cannot dictate the terms of the reconciliation.

The Path to Reconciliation

Jennifer Safian

jennifer safian. divorce and family mediator
divorce and family mediation
upper east side of manhattan (nyc)
new york, ny
(917) 881 5206
jpsafian@gmail.com
Jennifer Safian