Would you agree that you and your spouse are two people
who are still growing? That you haven't arrived? That you still
have a lot to learn? And that at least on this day you haven't
reached a state of perfection?

That's why your marriage isn't perfect. Because it's made
of two imperfect people who are still learning how to love.

THE TRUTH
Your marriage can always be stronger, healthier and happier because
you and your spouse never stop growing. So, even if you have a great marriage, it can be even greater.

Here are two things to help do just that:

1) TRADE PACE FOR PEACE
When we're rested, emotionally charged, and living life at a
reasonable and healthy pace, we have the patience to deal
with small stuff  before they turn into major problems.

Be proactive and choose a pace that gives you energy and an
emotional cushion so you can manage life's small stresses and
irritations better.

This might mean going to bed earlier or getting up earlier; it
could mean saying "no" to certain things so you can be more
present. 

So many couples are overworked, overstressed, exhausted, and
are functioning with very little emotional margin. This is why small
issues can quickly explode into big problems, leading to a pattern
of frustration and confrontation.

Trade your pace for peace to keep life from falling into pieces.

2) THE FIVE SECOND DELAY RULE
Television networks learned through the years that it's a good
practice to delay live broadcasts by about five seconds to filter
inappropriate stuff they didn't want their viewers to see or hear.

Probably a good rule for marriages, too.

What if we made it a habit to wait a few seconds to consider what
we're about to say to our spouse before we speak it? Especially
if we're feeling frustrated or angry with them?

Imagine all of the arguments that could be avoided!

You don't have to censor everything you say - just be thoughtful
about what you're about to say, ESPECIALLY if you've had a long,
hard day at work or with the kids and you're right on the edge.

Practicing these two tips is an easy way to make an imperfect
marriage seem less imperfect.

Until next week, this is Mike & Gayle Tucker and we want
you to be mad about marriage!