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Posted August 4, 2008
Tips for a Happy MarriageCourtesy of Susan Vogt, MA, CFLEJuly 31 Have a "plastic party for two." If you can't keep track of your expenses, or are spending too much, spend an evening cutting up all but one (or two) of your credit cards. Keep the one with the lowest interest rate. July 30 Whose marriage do you admire? It's good to have healthy models of marriage. Hang around with other couples who value their marriage. July 29 Noting that his grandparents have been married 50 years, Charlie Brown observes, "Grampa says it isn't luck; it's skill" (Classic Peanuts, 9-26-01). Marriage starts with love but skills can make it work. Consider taking a communication class. July 28 Some spouses need to hold (bite) their tongues more; others need to loosen their tongues and talk more about their feelings or thoughts. Which best fits you? July 27 "How blessed is the husband of a really good wife; the number of his days will be doubled" (Sirach 26:1). Recent medical research confirms that married men live longer than single men. Sharing life's stresses makes them more bearable. July 26 "Everyone has part of the wisdom. Everyone has a different part" (Mary Benet McKinney, OSB, Sharing Wisdom). When arguing with your spouse, look for your spouse's part of the wisdom. July 25 Weekly Date Idea: Do something silly that reminds you of your childhood, such as catching lightning bugs or feeding ducks. July 24 Have you ever made a Marriage Encounter weekend (wwme.org) or attended another marriage enrichment event? These are not for troubled marriages but for couples who want to deepen their relationship. July 23 Asking your spouse "Why?" can sound accusatory. Avoid questions such as "Why did you do that?" Instead, try "Honey, I would feel safer if you drove more slowly." July 22 What mood is your spouse in today? It shows empathy and increases intimacy to recognize your spouse's mood. Name the mood and ask your spouse if you're right. |