For me it was 25 years, where'd she go?
We had a good thing but it's a long story. Looked the whole thing over hard and long and can see I was dealing with her issues, not her. She only got worse and I'd say now she would be seen as a wack job to most anyone, given due time. She would embarrass me in restaurants, etc. But I gave her the benefit of doubt and kept trying, till she met another wack job (mother of son's friend, bi-polar). They both left their husbands with their children to pursue their happiness
. Her new husband just left her recently and she wants to cry to me about it. Unfortunately, I still have to deal with her from time to time.
I am happy for all who have found a good woman who is able to 'give of herself' to the relationship the way I gave to mine.