[jjames]

I don't believe the man in this story had any idea what he wanted apart from escape, escape from her, his kids, his job, perhaps his mortality. He could be described as a victim of his emotions. I think she was right to identify this as negative, as hopelessness and directionless self destruction. That doesn't make it any less real for him or any less painful for everyone involved but it does make it possible to see her as a patient and dedicated support. We all go through trials. Sometimes those trials work to destroy our lives, relationships and the people we love. We would all be lucky to have someone stick around while we take them for grant and self-immolate for 6 months.

Regardless, he always had the option to leave. If he had a better plan, he'd have rolled with it. If he was self-actualizing greater destiny, I would agree with you but this guy sounds like he was under water.