Hi - it's Mike and Gayle Tucker here with this week's
mad about marriage tip. The issue we have in mind is
sensitive and puts some spouses on the defensive.
But, it needs to be addressed because of the pain
it causes.
Here it is:
Making jokes at your spouse's expense.
Teasing, joking and being playful are all part of
a healthy marriage.
But sometimes spouses go too far and instead of
being humorous they are being hurtful.
Instead of humor, your spouse might be hearing and
feeling that you simply don't care - and wonder why
you're hurting them.
It's good to play and have fun - to tease and not take each
other so seriously.
BUT, whenever we make a joke at our spouse's expense,
we demean them and stress the relationship.
Your spouse needs to know that you have their back.
They need to know that they can count on you to build
them up and not tear them down, especially in front of
others.
So in this coming week, think about the jokes you make.
Are they innocent, playful, and made in good fun? Or
do they sting your spouse's heart a little bit.
Decide today to be a trustworthy spouse who never
belittles your partner in even the smallest ways.
Until next week, this is Mike and Gayle Tucker and
we want you to be mad about marriage!