When standing at the altar, people have an expectation - a vision - of
what their marriage will become in the following years.
But life has a
way of getting in the way, doesn’t it.
Things change.
The unexpected happens.
People hurt each other - it's inevitable.
And marriage takes a pounding as it passes through the storms of life.
Some relationships break apart upon the jagged rocks of disappointment
or disillusionment.
But others struggle through the ups and downs, and although the tempest
takes a toll they manage to survive.
Although there are many reasons why a marriage fails, it usually boils
down to a lack of trust and waning love.
How can we make trust and love thrive so we can have the marriage
of our dreams?
1. Open the lines of communication by seeking to understand
before being understood. Take the pressure off yourself by realizing
that just because you understand doesn’t necessarily mean you
agree.
2. Share concerns. Talk about what each of you thinks would need to
happen for you to have a better marriage.
3. Have each other's back. Never attack your spouse. And support
them when they're being attacked.
4. Have something to talk about. Discuss your lives - kick things off
by talking
about what happened during your day.
5. Open up about your needs. What would you like more/less of?
6. Let down your guard - become emotionally available. Let your spouse
into your world.
7. Confide in each other - this creates an environment of trust, hope and
belonging within your relationship.
8.
Make compromises & sacrifices - put their happiness first. In fact, make
your spouse’s happiness your top priority.
9. Give by practicing random acts of kindness to your spouse.
10. At the end
of the day when you both come home, welcome each other
with a warm a hug and a kiss. Be glad you have each other to come home to!
It’s little things like these that fill your partner’s heart with happiness and joy.
The bond of trust will strengthen and your love for one another will grow.
Your marriage will be healthier and happier, too.
And maybe, just maybe, the blissfulness you imagined the day you pledged
yourselves to each other forever will grace your relationship once more.
Until next time, this is Mike & Gayle Tucker and we want you
to be mad about
marriage!
