There are no two sides to a story of infidelity

There are two sides to every story….

This phrase is often used to justify actions or explain away wrongdoing. But when it comes to infidelity, the idea of “two sides” rarely holds up. Cheating is a betrayal of trust, and no amount of justification can erase the harm it causes. While relationships can be complicated and imperfect, infidelity is not a solution—it’s a choice that disregards the moral responsibility we have toward our partners.

Some might argue that there are exceptional circumstances where cheating could be “understandable.” For instance, if someone feels trapped in a relationship they cannot leave due to fear of violence or retribution. But even in such dire situations, cheating doesn’t solve the problem—it complicates it further. Seeking help from law enforcement, support networks, or professional resources is far more effective than turning to an affair partner. Infidelity only adds layers of deception and pain to an already difficult situation.

In truth, I have yet to hear a convincing justification for cheating. Regardless of how unhappy or disillusioned someone may feel in their relationship, being a moral person means confronting the issue directly—either by discussing it openly or by choosing to leave. Cheating bypasses these options entirely, replacing honesty with secrecy and respect with betrayal.

A Comparison Worth Considering

If we were to compare relationships to business contracts—a far less personal arrangement—the expectation of integrity would still apply. Imagine if a company felt stuck in a bad deal but wanted to maintain its reputation. The ethical options would be clear: renegotiate the terms or pay the break clause and exit the agreement. What would be considered unacceptable? Shopping around for other deals behind their partner’s back while continuing to benefit from the existing contract. It’s unscrupulous and damaging.

Now consider this: relationships are built on far deeper foundations than business contracts—love, trust, vulnerability, and emotional intimacy. If dishonesty is despicable in business dealings, how much more so in relationships? Cheating isn’t just a breach of trust; it’s an act that undermines the very core of what makes relationships meaningful.

Accountability always lies on the unfaithful side

Infidelity is not a mistake—it’s a choice. And while no relationship is perfect, cheating is never the answer. It doesn’t fix problems; it creates new ones. It doesn’t resolve unhappiness; it spreads it further. If someone feels they cannot continue in their relationship, they owe it to themselves—and their partner—to handle the situation with honesty and integrity.

There may be two sides to many stories in life, but when it comes to infidelity, there’s one clear truth: cheating is a betrayal that cannot be justified.