Rebuilding a Broken Marriage: Biblical Steps Towards Restoring Love and Trust

What does the Bible say about marriage restoration?

The Holy Scriptures offer us a powerful vision of marriage as a sacred covenant, reflecting the unbreakable bond between Christ and His Church. When this covenant is strained or broken, God’s heart yearns for reconciliation and restoration.

We see this most powerfully in the book of Hosea, where the prophet’s faithful love for his unfaithful wife becomes a living parable of God’s enduring love for His people. Despite Israel’s infidelity, the Lord declares, “I will betroth you to me forever; I will betroth you in righteousness and justice, in love and compassion” (Hosea 2:19). This is the model of forgiveness and restoration that we are called to emulate in our own marriages.

The New Testament further illuminates this path of reconciliation. Our Lord Jesus, when asked about divorce, points us back to God’s original design: “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate” (Mark 10:9). This is not a burden, but an invitation to persevere in love, trusting in God’s grace to overcome our human weaknesses.

St. Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, gives us the blueprint for this perseverance: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). Here we see that the power for marital restoration comes not from our own strength, but from the inexhaustible wellspring of God’s forgiveness.

The apostle also reminds us that marriage is a “powerful mystery” that reflects Christ’s love for the Church (Ephesians 5:32). When we work to restore our marriages, we participate in this mystery, making visible to the world the reconciling love of God.

Yet, we must not be naive about the challenges of restoration. The Scriptures are clear that this path requires humility, repentance, and a willingness to change. As the Psalmist writes, “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10). This prayer must be on the lips of both spouses as they seek to rebuild their relationship.

Remember, too, the wisdom of Ecclesiastes: “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12). When we invite God to be the third strand in our marriage, weaving His love and grace into the fabric of our relationship, we find the strength to overcome even the most daunting obstacles.

My children, if you are struggling in your marriage, take heart. The Bible assures us that with God, restoration is always possible. “I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,” declares the Lord (Jeremiah 30:17). This promise, though spoken to Israel, echoes God’s desire for every marriage. Trust in His healing power, seek His wisdom, and never lose hope in the transformative power of His love.

How can couples reconnect emotionally and spiritually?

The journey of reconnecting emotionally and spiritually in an unhappy marriage is a sacred pilgrimage, one that requires patience, intentionality, and above all, openness to the grace of God.

We must recognize that emotional and spiritual intimacy are gifts from God, to be cherished and cultivated with great care. As the Psalmist reminds us, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1). Therefore, the foundation of all reconnection must be prayer – both individual and shared.

I encourage couples to establish a daily practice of praying together, even if only for a few minutes. This might involve reading a short Scripture passage, sharing intentions, or simply holding hands in silent communion with God. As Pope John Paul II beautifully expressed, “The Christian family is the first place of education in prayer.” By praying together, spouses invite the Holy Spirit to be present in their relationship, opening their hearts to each other and to God.

Emotional reconnection often begins with the simple act of listening – truly listening – to one another. In our fast-paced world, it is easy to fall into patterns of superficial communication. But deep listening requires us to set aside distractions, to be fully present, and to receive our spouse’s words with empathy and without judgment. As St. James exhorts us, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19).

Consider setting aside regular time for meaningful conversation, free from the interruptions of technology or the demands of daily life. Share your hopes, your fears, your joys, and your sorrows. Be vulnerable with one another, remembering that in marriage, you are called to be “one flesh” (Genesis 2:24) – united in body, mind, and spirit.

Spiritual reconnection often flourishes when couples engage in acts of service together. As you reach out to others in need – perhaps volunteering at your parish, visiting the sick, or helping a neighbor – you reflect the love of Christ and grow closer to each other in the process. “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works” (Ephesians 2:10).

Do not underestimate the power of shared experiences in fostering emotional and spiritual intimacy. Attend Mass together regularly, participate in a couples’ retreat, or join a small faith-sharing group. These shared spiritual experiences can deepen your bond and provide opportunities for growth and reflection.

It is also important to nurture forgiveness and healing in your relationship. No marriage is without its hurts and disappointments. But as St. Paul reminds us, “Love keeps no record of wrongs” (1 Corinthians 13:5). Practice forgiveness daily, both asking for it and granting it freely. This creates a climate of grace in your home, where emotional and spiritual reconnection can flourish.

Finally, remember that reconnecting is not a destination but a journey. There will be setbacks and challenges along the way. But take heart in the words of our Lord Jesus: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). When the path seems difficult, turn to Him together. Let His love be the source of your strength and the wellspring of your intimacy.

May the Holy Spirit guide you as you seek to reconnect emotionally and spiritually, drawing you ever closer to each other and to the heart of God.

What practical steps can be taken to rebuild trust?

Rebuilding after trust issues in a marriage is a delicate and sacred task, one that requires great courage, patience, and above all, the grace of God. Let us reflect on some practical steps that can help spouses navigate this challenging but rewarding journey.

We must recognize that trust is a gift – both human and divine. As St. Paul reminds us, “Love believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13:7). This capacity to trust is rooted in love, and ultimately in God’s love for us. Therefore, the foundation of rebuilding trust must be a renewed commitment to God and to one’s marriage vows.

A crucial step in rebuilding trust is the practice of radical honesty. This means not only refraining from deception but actively cultivating transparency in all aspects of life. Our Lord Jesus teaches us, “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’” (Matthew 5:37). In marriage, this translates to open communication about one’s whereabouts, activities, and relationships. It may feel uncomfortable at first, but this transparency is essential for rebuilding trust.

For the spouse who has broken trust, it is vital to take full responsibility for one’s actions without excuses or blame-shifting. This requires deep humility and a willingness to face the pain one has caused. As we read in Proverbs, “Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy” (Proverbs 28:13). Genuine repentance, expressed not just in words but in consistent actions over time, is the soil in which new trust can take root.

For the spouse who has been hurt, the challenge is to remain open to the possibility of healing while also establishing healthy boundaries. This is not easy, and it requires great courage. Remember the words of our Lord: “Be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). It is wise to protect oneself from further harm, but we must also cultivate the innocence that allows for the possibility of reconciliation.

Practical steps might include agreeing on new patterns of accountability, such as sharing passwords, checking in regularly, or attending marriage counseling together. These measures are not meant to be punitive, but rather to create a safe environment where trust can be gradually rebuilt. As we read in Galatians, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2).

It is also crucial for both spouses to work on self-improvement and spiritual growth. This might involve individual counseling, spiritual direction, or engaging in practices that foster self-awareness and emotional healing. As we grow in our relationship with God, we become more capable of extending and receiving trust in our human relationships.

Remember, that rebuilding trust is a process that takes time. There may be setbacks along the way, moments of doubt or fear. In these times, cling to the promise of God’s faithfulness: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23).

Celebrate small victories along the way. Acknowledge moments when trust is honored, when promises are kept, when honesty prevails. These small steps, over time, build a new foundation of trust.

Finally, pray together for the grace of trust. Ask the Holy Spirit to heal wounds, to soften hearts, and to renew your love for one another. As you place your trust in God, you will find the strength to trust each other anew.

The path of rebuilding trust is not easy, but it is a path that leads to deeper love, greater intimacy, and a more powerful reflection of God’s faithfulness in your marriage. May the Lord bless you and keep you as you undertake this sacred work. Remember that rebuilding trust also involves overcoming feelings of bitterness and resentment. It requires open communication, vulnerability, and a willingness to forgive. As you navigate this journey, may you find strength in God’s grace and the support of each other. Trusting God’s guidance in relationships means relying on His wisdom and timing as you work to rebuild trust. It also involves seeking His guidance in how to navigate the challenges and obstacles that may arise along the way. By leaning on Him and following His lead, you can find hope and healing in the process of rebuilding trust in your marriage.

How should infidelity be addressed from a Christian perspective?

Addressing infidelity in marriage is one of the most painful and challenging situations a couple can face. Yet, even in the midst of such powerful hurt, we are called to approach this issue with the compassion, wisdom, and hope that flow from our Christian faith.

First, we must acknowledge the gravity of infidelity. The Scriptures are clear that adultery is a serious sin, one that violates the sacred covenant of marriage. Our Lord Jesus himself reinforces the sanctity of the marriage bond, stating, “What God has joined together, let no one separate” (Mark 10:9). Infidelity strikes at the heart of this divine union.

But we must also remember that our God is a God of mercy and forgiveness. The story of Hosea powerfully illustrates God’s enduring love for His unfaithful people, offering hope for even the most broken relationships. As Pope Francis has said, “God never tires of forgiving us; we are the ones who tire of seeking his mercy.”

When addressing infidelity, the first step must be to stop the unfaithful behavior immediately and completely. There can be no true healing while the infidelity continues. This requires a firm commitment to ending all contact with the third party and a willingness to be fully transparent with one’s spouse.

For the spouse who has been unfaithful, there must be genuine repentance. This involves not only feeling remorse but taking concrete actions to change one’s behavior and rebuild trust. As we read in 2 Corinthians, “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret” (2 Corinthians 7:10). This repentance should be expressed through a sincere apology, a willingness to answer questions honestly, and patient acceptance of the betrayed spouse’s pain and anger.

For the betrayed spouse, the challenge is to navigate the difficult path between the extremes of hasty forgiveness and unrelenting bitterness. It is important to allow oneself to feel and process the pain of betrayal. At the same time, we are called to be open to the possibility of forgiveness, remembering our Lord’s words: “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you” (Matthew 6:14).

Both spouses should seek support during this difficult time. This might include pastoral counseling, professional therapy, and the support of trusted friends or family members. It is crucial to have a safe space to process emotions and receive guidance. As Proverbs reminds us, “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14).

The process of healing from infidelity often requires a deep examination of the marriage as a whole. While infidelity is never justified, it can sometimes be a symptom of underlying issues in the relationship. Both spouses should be willing to look honestly at patterns of communication, emotional intimacy, and mutual support in their marriage. This self-reflection should be done with humility and a desire for growth, not as a way to shift blame or justify wrongdoing.

Prayer must be at the center of addressing infidelity. Both individual and shared prayer can provide strength, guidance, and healing. As the Psalmist writes, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10). This should be the prayer of both spouses as they seek to rebuild their relationship.

It is important to recognize that healing from infidelity is a process that takes time. There may be moments of progress followed by setbacks. Patience and perseverance are essential. As St. Paul encourages us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).

Finally, remember that with God, restoration is always possible. Even in the darkest moments, hold fast to the hope that through His grace, your marriage can be healed and even strengthened. As we read in Joel, “I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten” (Joel 2:25). Trust in God’s power to bring new life out of even the most painful circumstances.

May the Lord guide you with His wisdom, comfort you with His love, and strengthen you with His grace as you address this difficult challenge in your marriage.

How can spouses support each other’s spiritual growth during reconciliation?

The journey of reconciliation in marriage offers a unique opportunity for spouses to support each other’s spiritual growth. This mutual nurturing of faith can be a powerful force for healing and renewal, drawing couples closer to each other and to God.

We must recognize that spiritual growth is a gift of grace. As St. Paul reminds us, “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow” (1 Corinthians 3:6). Therefore, the foundation of supporting each other’s spiritual growth must be prayer – both for oneself and for one’s spouse. Pray daily for your partner’s spiritual well-being, asking the Holy Spirit to guide, strengthen, and inspire them.

During the reconciliation process, it is crucial to create a home environment that nurtures faith. As spouses, you are called to be “domestic church” to each other. This might involve setting up a prayer corner in your home, displaying religious art that inspires reflection, or playing sacred music that lifts the spirit. As we read in Joshua, “But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).

Encourage each other in spiritual practices. This could mean inviting your spouse to join you in daily Scripture reading, attending Mass together, or participating in parish activities. Remember, But to be gentle in your encouragement. Spiritual growth cannot be forced; it must be nurtured with patience and love. As St. Francis de Sales wisely counseled, “Be patient with everyone, but above all with yourself.”

Listen to each other’s spiritual journeys without judgment. During reconciliation, spouses may experience doubts, anger towards God, or periods of spiritual dryness. Create a safe space where these feelings can be expressed and held with compassion. As we read in Romans, “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God” (Romans 15:7).

Engage in acts of service together as a way of living out your faith. Volunteering at a local charity, helping a neighbor in need, or supporting a worthy cause can strengthen your bond and deepen your shared spiritual life. As our Lord Jesus taught, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).

Be willing to forgive and ask for forgiveness regularly. The reconciliation process often brings to light past hurts and resentments. Practice the art of forgiveness, remembering that it is a reflection of God’s mercy towards us. As we pray in the Our Father, “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.”

What boundaries are important when working on a broken marriage?

When a marriage is wounded, establishing healthy boundaries becomes essential for healing and rebuilding trust. These boundaries act not as walls to separate, but as safeguards to protect the fragile process of reconciliation.

Physical and emotional safety must be ensured for both spouses. If there has been any form of abuse, clear boundaries must be set to prevent further harm. This may require temporary separation or third-party intervention to create a safe environment for healing to begin.

Boundaries around communication are crucial. Couples must commit to speaking with respect and kindness, even in moments of frustration. Harsh words and criticism only deepen wounds. Instead, agree to pause conversations when emotions escalate, and resume only when calm has been restored. This allows for more productive dialogue.

Privacy is another important boundary. While seeking support from trusted friends or family can be helpful, oversharing details of marital struggles can damage the relationship further. Agree on what information will remain private between you and what may be shared with others.

Financial boundaries are often necessary, especially if trust has been broken in this area. Transparency in spending and joint decision-making on major financial choices can help rebuild trust and security.

Time boundaries are also valuable. Set aside dedicated time to work on the relationship, free from distractions. Equally important is respecting each other’s need for individual time and space to process and heal.

Boundaries around past hurts are essential. While addressing past wounds is part of healing, constantly rehashing old grievances impedes progress. Agree on how and when to discuss past issues constructively.

Finally, establish boundaries around your commitment to the process. Healing takes time and effort. Set realistic expectations and commit to seeing the process through, barring any safety concerns.

Remember, these boundaries are not meant to constrain, but to create a safe space for love to flourish once again. They require mutual agreement and respect. As you navigate this challenging terrain, may you find strength in God’s unfailing love and guidance.

How can couples improve communication in a struggling marriage?

Communication is the lifeblood of any relationship, especially in marriage. When a marriage is struggling, improving communication becomes not just important, but essential for healing and growth.

First, we must cultivate the art of listening. True listening goes beyond simply hearing words; it involves opening our hearts to truly understand our spouse’s perspective. Practice giving your full attention when your partner speaks. Put aside distractions, make eye contact, and resist the urge to formulate responses before they have finished speaking. Reflect back what you’ve heard to ensure understanding.

Honesty tempered with kindness is crucial. Speak your truth, but do so with love and respect. Remember that your words have the power to heal or to wound. Choose them wisely, always considering how they might be received by your spouse.

Learn to express your feelings clearly and directly. Use “I” statements to share your emotions without blaming or attacking. For example, instead of saying “You never listen to me,” try “I feel unheard when we talk.” This approach invites understanding rather than defensiveness.

Timing is important in communication. Choose moments when both partners are calm and receptive to have important conversations. Avoid discussing sensitive topics when tired, stressed, or emotionally charged.

Non-verbal communication speaks volumes. Be mindful of your tone of voice, facial expressions, and body language. Ensure that your non-verbal cues align with your words to avoid sending mixed messages.

Practice empathy in your interactions. Try to put yourself in your spouse’s shoes, to understand their feelings and motivations. This doesn’t mean you must agree with everything, but it fosters compassion and connection.

Develop the habit of expressing gratitude and appreciation regularly. Acknowledge the positive aspects of your spouse and your relationship, even amidst struggles. This creates a foundation of goodwill that can help navigate difficult conversations.

When conflicts arise, focus on finding solutions rather than assigning blame. Work together as a team to address issues, remembering that you are partners, not adversaries.

Finally, don’t hesitate to seek help if communication remains challenging. A skilled counselor or therapist can provide tools and guidance to improve your interaction patterns.

Remember, that improving communication is a journey, not a destination. It requires patience, practice, and perseverance. But with each small step, you build a stronger foundation for your marriage, opening pathways for love and understanding to flow more freely.

What is the role of repentance in healing marital wounds?

Repentance plays a powerful role in the healing of marital wounds. It is a transformative process that goes beyond mere apology, inviting us into a deeper understanding of ourselves, our actions, and their impact on our beloved spouse.

True repentance begins with honest self-reflection. It requires us to look inward, to examine our hearts and actions with courage and humility. We must be willing to confront our own shortcomings, to acknowledge the ways in which we have hurt our partner or fallen short of our marital vows. This self-examination is not about self-condemnation, but about growth and transformation.

Repentance involves taking full responsibility for our actions, without excuses or blame-shifting. It means acknowledging the pain we have caused, even when unintentional. This can be a difficult and humbling process, but it is essential for healing to begin.

In the context of marriage, repentance must be expressed not just to God, but also to our spouse. It involves vulnerable and honest communication, sharing our remorse and our desire to change. This expression of repentance should be specific, addressing particular actions or patterns of behavior that have caused harm.

But true repentance goes beyond words; it must be accompanied by action. It involves a genuine commitment to change, to turn away from hurtful behaviors and attitudes. This may require seeking help, whether through counseling, spiritual guidance, or support groups. It often involves learning new skills and ways of relating to our spouse.

Repentance also includes making amends where possible. This might involve practical steps to right wrongs or to rebuild trust. It requires patience and perseverance, as trust that has been broken takes time to restore.

For the spouse who has been wounded, witnessing genuine repentance can be a powerful catalyst for healing. It can open the door to forgiveness and reconciliation. But it’s important to remember that while repentance is necessary for healing, it does not guarantee immediate restoration of the relationship. Healing is a process that involves both partners.

In our faith, we are reminded of God’s infinite mercy and His desire for reconciliation. This can give us hope and strength as we navigate the challenging path of repentance and healing in our marriages. We are called to extend the same grace and forgiveness to our spouse that God extends to us.

Remember, that repentance is not a one-time event, but an ongoing attitude of humility and growth. In marriage, both partners will have opportunities to repent, as we all fall short at times. Embracing this process with sincerity and love can lead to powerful healing and a deeper, more authentic connection with our spouse.

How can couples reignite intimacy in a damaged relationship?

Reigniting intimacy in a damaged relationship is a delicate and sacred task. It requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to be vulnerable with one another once again. Remember that intimacy encompasses not just physical closeness, but emotional and spiritual connection as well.

First, we must recognize that healing takes time. Rushing to rekindle physical intimacy without addressing underlying issues can lead to further hurt. Begin by fostering emotional intimacy. Create safe spaces for open, honest communication. Share your fears, hopes, and dreams with one another. Listen without judgment, seeking to understand your partner’s heart.

Rebuild trust through small, consistent actions. Be reliable in your words and deeds. Follow through on commitments, no matter how small. Each fulfilled promise is a step towards restoring faith in the relationship.

Rediscover the joy of non-sexual touch. Hold hands, embrace, offer a comforting touch on the arm. These simple gestures can help reestablish physical connection without pressure or expectation.

Engage in activities that bring you closer emotionally. Shared experiences create bonds. This might involve trying new hobbies together, volunteering as a couple, or revisiting places that hold special memories for your relationship.

Practice gratitude and appreciation. Regularly express thankfulness for your partner’s positive qualities and actions. This helps shift focus from past hurts to present blessings, creating a more positive atmosphere for intimacy to grow.

Nurture your spiritual connection. Pray together, study scripture, or engage in meaningful discussions about faith. A shared spiritual life can deepen your bond and provide strength for the journey of healing.

Be intentional about creating romantic moments. Plan date nights, write love notes, or surprise your spouse with thoughtful gestures. These acts of love help rekindle the spark that may have dimmed.

Address any physical or emotional barriers to intimacy. This might involve seeking medical advice for physical issues or counseling for emotional challenges. Remember, there is no shame in seeking help to overcome obstacles to intimacy.

When you do engage in physical intimacy, approach it with reverence and care. Focus on giving pleasure and comfort rather than receiving. Be attentive to your partner’s needs and boundaries, always respecting their readiness and comfort level.

Cultivate patience and forgiveness. Healing is rarely a linear process. There may be setbacks along the way. Approach these moments with compassion for yourself and your spouse.

Remember, that true intimacy is built on a foundation of love, respect, and mutual care. As you work to reignite intimacy in your relationship, keep your hearts open to God’s grace. Let His love guide and inspire you in your journey towards deeper connection with your spouse.

What scriptures offer hope and guidance for troubled marriages?

The Holy Scriptures offer us a wellspring of hope and guidance for marriages that are struggling. These sacred words, inspired by God’s love, can illuminate our path and strengthen our resolve as we work to heal and restore our relationships.

Let us begin with the foundational teaching on marriage from the book of Genesis: “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). This verse reminds us of the powerful unity that marriage is meant to embody. Even in times of struggle, we are called to “hold fast” to one another, to persevere in love and commitment.

The wisdom of Ecclesiastes offers comfort and perspective: “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). This passage speaks to the mutual support and strength that can be found in marriage, even when facing difficulties.

In times of conflict, we can turn to the words of St. Paul in Ephesians: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). This verse calls us to embody Christ’s love in our marriages, extending kindness and forgiveness even when it is challenging.

The book of Proverbs offers practical wisdom for maintaining harmony: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1). This reminds us of the power of gentle, thoughtful communication in resolving conflicts and healing wounds.

For those feeling discouraged, the prophet Jeremiah offers words of hope: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). This verse reassures us that even in our darkest moments, God has a plan for our good and for the restoration of our relationships.

The Psalms provide comfort and strength: “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). This reminds us that God is present with us in our pain and struggles, offering His healing presence.

In 1 Corinthians, we find guidance on the nature of love: “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). This passage offers a blueprint for how we are called to love one another in marriage, especially during challenging times.

Finally, let us remember the words of Jesus himself: “What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate” (Mark 10:9). This verse reminds us of the sacred nature of marriage and encourages us to persevere in working towards reconciliation and healing.

As you meditate on these scriptures, may you find comfort, guidance, and renewed hope for your marriage. Let these words of divine wisdom sink deep into your hearts, nourishing your love and strengthening your commitment to one another. Remember, with God’s grace and your sincere efforts, healing and restoration are possible.