Thread by @PGeeman

1. Hello and welcome. It’s episode 320 of #MrMrsBetterHalf. Mr & Mrs BetterHalf is designed to strengthen marriages & relationships that will lead to marriage, with wisdom from God's Word.

2. If you missed the last episode on ‘
"Old flames. What to do with past lovers... Yes or no to friendship? Part 1."
’, please get it here: wke.lt/w/s/9FRKof #MrMrsBetterHalf

3. Today, we'll continue the conversation on "Old flames. What to do with past lovers... Yes or no to friendship? Part 2." #MrMrsBetterHalf

4. Let me start by asking you this question; How was your past relationship? Platonic, emotional, physical, or a combination of emotional and physical? (a) Platonic: Feelings were not too strong. Maybe a small crush. Little/no physical activity. #MrMrsBetterHalf

5. (b) Emotional: Here you opened your heart and showed vulnerability. This is often your ‘first love’ #MrMrsBetterHalf

6. (c) Physical: You engaged in casual sexual activities without true relationship commitment. (d) Emotional and sexual involvement: You were both emotionally and sexually involved with this person. #MrMrsBetterHalf

7. The platonic relationship is often the easiest to overlook because there were no deep feelings between you. Nevertheless, if your spouse is ok with this friendship, have defined boundaries. Don't get too comfortable. #MrMrsBetterHalf

8. Under no circumstance should this ex become your BFF and primary confidant. Keep it simple and platonic. Emotionally bonded exes: Don’t underestimate the power of an emotional attachment. #MrMrsBetterHalf

9. People often cheat emotionally before they do so physically. This is something to definitely guard against. This is not the person to hang out with when you’re lonely or confide in when you’re upset. #MrMrsBetterHalf

10. You are more vulnerable in this area than you realize. Resist the urge to seek them out when you’re down. If your spouse/fiancé is ok with you being friends ask someone to keep you accountable so you don’t get attached. #MrMrsBetterHalf

11. Physical Involvement: Even if it was casual sex, build a very high fence between you and this person. I am not saying that you cannot be civil or kind, but I would advise that you not pursue a close friendship. #MrMrsBetterHalf

12. People have a sense of entitlement when they’ve seen you naked. They might want to go down memory lane. A past sexual partner can also arouse jealousy in your spouse/fiancé so don’t borrow unnecessary trouble. #MrMrsBetterHalf

13. Emotional + Physical connection. This is someone who you both loved and had a sexual affair with. There are two things you're dealing with- an emotional bond and a sexual bond. Both things are hard to break! #MrMrsBetterHalf

14. You were in love with this person- maybe even engaged. Most likely s/he broke your heart or vice versa. If you loved someone and got your heart shattered, this is something you will probably never forget. #MrMrsBetterHalf

15. Many people confess that their first loves still have a piece of their hearts. Those emotions run deep. It’s not the wisest thing to rekindle a friendship with someone that you once wanted to spend your life with. #MrMrsBetterHalf

16. Many good relationships have been troubled by the ‘return of the first love’. Don’t let that be your story! If you need to rehash the past with your ex just so you can heal do so- but end it there. Don’t play with fire. #MrMrsBetterHalf

17. Don’t bring this person into your daily routine lest you resurface feelings that should be left well alone. In all of this remember the friendship that you really need to focus on and build up is the one with your spouse. #MrMrsBetterHalf

18. Maybe you're asking, what if my spouse agrees to friendship with my ex? If your spouse agrees to your friendship with an ex, don’t abuse the trust and have clearly defined boundaries. #MrMrsBetterHalf

19. If your spouse is simply uncomfortable with you being friends with an ex, respect it and keep away. #MrMrsBetterHalf

20. Friendship with an ex is not important & is inconsequential in comparison to your friendship with your spouse. Your ex is a part of your past- s/he shouldn't have a starring role in your present. #MrMrsBetterHalf

21. Similarly, if you don’t want your spouse hanging with an ex, don't hang with yours either. No double standards. #MrMrsBetterHalf

22. I hope this has been helpful to you. I will be back next week with a new topic. Till next week Friday, thanks for following and RTing. May your marriages and relationships be sweet. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in advance. #MrMrsBetterHalf