Board Thread:General Discussion/@comment-28447977-20160522154017/@comment-24674051-20160524165843

He was honest, yes. that was step 1. He also needs to find more productive uses for his magic and stop making deals all the time. So far, he's one for 3.

Rumple has more magic potential than any other wizard/witch in the show. plus more time refining it than anyone alive. He does not need to give up his magic. and I think Belle understands that Rumple will not give up magic. But the expectation is there (from Belle) from Rumple to use his magic responsibly, something that he has not learned to do at this point. I think that if Rumple and Belle would work together, Belle could help Rumple know and understand the proper use of magic.

Rumple is Rumple. but he could be a better Rumple, if the writers choose to go that route.