> You can't judge a person's character by the mistakes they make. Their reactions to those mistakes and their subsequent behaviour are far more significant.
>
> I am only using the word "mistake" since it was something that seriously went against your beliefs. It was a mistake in that sense, but the act must be separated from the results. From what you say, you do not feel that your marriage is going to be a mistake, or your relationship with your future wife and your future child. Good. Years from now, I hope you will be able to look back and say that God blessed you when he gave you this wife and child. Please never believe that your marriage began from a mistake; your marriage is beginning from goodness and love and morality and honesty, and your desire to obey the will of God in overcoming your past errors. All the good things in your future family's life together will be a result of that, and a reward.
>
> Brunnen-"was going to just say I agree with Sam, but Monkeyman beat me to it so I had to write a real post"G
>

Then I am very glad that you do write 'real' posts as often as you do ;-)

Like Shandar, I'm going to save that post to read it again over the next few months.

And also for Shandar and Hannah: the situation that you are facing is one of the most emotionally nerve-wracking that two people can face together. I suppose what I'm trying to say is what B-G has said so well, already. As implied, nothing could start a marriage off worse than a shotgun atmosphere of guilt and self-blame, which fortunately does not appear to be the case here. What is done is done; but your new life with each other will still be fruitful by seeing it as a new opportunity to serve God together, side by side. It's good to know that you have the support and commitment and prayers of so many others, as well as ours. God keep you.