With respect may this old crone give you a quote from Janis Joplin:

Don't compromise yourself-you've all you got.....

But..not only listen to what your life partner says,hear what she says....be extra aware that because of your fear you are quick to take offense and because of her fear from the teachings she has received she too may make a remark that seems judgemental (and probably is) but as a pagan one must be charitable in the misinformation another has received and has been made to believe.As a pagan one must be charitable and understanding and above all be truthfull, try to explain your beliefs in a most kind and understanding, compassionate way....it's the not knowing that brings fear.
and above all make it known that you respect her beliefs and would that she would respect yours...perhaps the
"talking out" will bring a certain peace to your home

in truth and with respect..Willow

I must agree with the wise words of Willow... and Janis... leave the dialog open for questions and learning... maybe when you set up your altar, that would be a good time to share some basic info with Carroll (and the boys).
I've missed you so, dear friend... xxx ooo

Glad to hear from you! Give yourself time to figure out how to talk about your religious beliefs with your wife. It's going to be especially hard because you have been seperated from your family for quite a while. I am sure things will get easier.

I tried to explain Lughnasadh to my dad and he just wanted to make sure I wasn't holding seances....I told him no, but I did have to find a black rooster to drag to the cross roads by midnight....maybe not the smartest thing to say.

Bill,
Give yourself a break will you. Damn, you just got back from a war zone and life is gonna be a little hard. For both of you! You are not going to be always right about how you do things. I know that is hard for a NCO to deal with but right now what you and your wife need is baby steps.
One small step at a time and then you will both be able to understand each other again. Just breath before you talk. Take a minute, think and then speak. It will come and you don't need to feel defensive with her. I know it is hard. It was hard when I came out with my family. Sometimes I was rued and so where they. We loved and laughed at our stupidity and then we moved on.
My Warrior friend I feel you need to give yourself room for error. I know we as NCO's don't do this often but from this avenue you need to. This is new to you, as well as for her!
I hope You know I am just trying to get you to stop punishing yourself for being a human! Blessings, love and much Friendship,
Cherie

I'm sure she understands the situation, you're probably just being too hard on yourself. I'm sure she was probably just thinking what a beautiful gift.