My husband has been having an affair with a co-worker. At first, he claimed he was only giving "emotional support" while she was going through a divorce. He left for a month and now claims that his return is based on wanting to "be here for our 3-year-old daughter." Is there any hope of us rebuilding this marriage? — Wanting Him Still, in Montgomery, Ala.

Dear Wanting: That depends on your ability to forgive him. Many men leave during affairs and never return because their spouses are not able to let go of their hurt. Out of pride and momentary passion, some foolish men relinquish their responsibilities as husbands and parents. The fact that he wants to be there for your daughter is a good sign that he has an open heart to both his child and you. While he has not yet come out and said that he is remorseful about the affair, he may be looking for a sign that you are willing to forgive him and work through your differences together.

Should you decide that you can indeed forgive him and give him your trust again, and if you are both willing to openly discuss what will make the marriage work from this point forward, the odds begin to get better. The decision is yours.

Dear John: My husband and I have always been happy just being with each other. Recently, however, he's been worried about job security, and I've been worried about the household budget. I think all this pressure has put a strain on an otherwise happy relationship. Is there anything we can do to reduce this stress and remember the love? — Feeling Stressed, in Charleston, S.C.

Dear Stressed: There are a variety of positive things you can do, but first, I want to commend you for recognizing that at this difficult time you are feeling stressed out. Recognizing the pressures that you are feeling is an important step in not succumbing to its negative influence.

You've got money worries, he has job problems, and that can easily lead to tension. That's no reason, however, not to share a special day in which you take a break from it all. The things that the two of you do together on this special day can help get you out of your stress. Just one day can give you a new perspective. What endures is the love you feel for each other! Take a day now and then to celebrate the joy of your shared lives and you'll remember that passing problems are always less important than the power of lasting love.

John Gray is the author of "Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus." Visit his website, http://www.marsvenus.com, for advice on dating, marriage, parenting, romance and workplace issues. Or email him at [email protected]. To find out more about John Gray and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.