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[From The Frisky]

Like everyone else, I’ve been glued to the Chris Brown/Rihanna debacle, and was saddened when I read reports that she might get back together with someone who left her so bruised and battered.

But here’s the thing: loads of couples breakup and then make-up and sometimes things work out great. But knowing when, and under what circumstances, to forgive and forget is key, and most of us won’t know until we’re thrust into that situation. Here are six scenarios to consider…

Sometimes

Timing: Sometimes one or both of you just aren’t relationship-ready and the romance falls apart for no other reason than wrong place/wrong time. My friend C. left her man when it became clear she was ready for something more permanent and he was more interested in er, impermanence. A year later they ran into each other and he was older, wiser, and ready to tie the knot.

Distance: He got a great job in LA, but you’d rather bathe in carpet tacks than spend one minute in the land of implants and tanlines. But now he’s back and wants to pick up where you left off. If, after all that time apart you still have the hots for each other, why not see how it goes?

Maybe

Drunky/Junky: Few things are less hot than a boyfriend who prefers booze or drugs to romancing the one they “love.” You did the right thing when you dumped his wasted butt! But now he’s clean and sober and calling you for coffee dates. If he’s seriously sober (and that means for over a year) and has a program or therapist helping him stay that way, you can test the waters (if you’re still inclined). Otherwise, keep reminding yourself of the time he projectile-vomited at your sister’s wedding.

What are 4 other “break up to make up” scenarios to consider/stay away from? Click here to find out.

Why do so many celebrity couples break up to make up, when they’re always in the spotlight? Click here for some thoughts.

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