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How To Show Respect to Your Partner
My husband is a champion drag racer. He’s driven fast cars. Dangerous cars. And I’ve worried. This career we’ve traversed together has stretched our marriage in difficult ways. And in profoundly satisfying ways. Every day felt like a new test as we climbed the ladder with new expectations and no time to get comfortable before the next one arose. One of my biggest challenges, maybe you can relate, has been how to show my husband respect. It’s not that I’ve been outright disrespectful. But, love without expectations seems to be easier to understand and accomplish. But it’s taxing to trust and respect each other, especially on roads you’ve never traveled…
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Assertiveness and the Four Styles of Communication
“Never mind. It’s fine.” This common response never actually means that someone is really fine, right? According to a recent study by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, poor communication is why relationships fail. But wait! I thought the reason why do most relationships end was money, sex, and lack of engagement? Well, yes, those things count too, but communication is key in marriage. Active listening to your partner in a way that cements agreement, the banter leading to fun and attraction, the long conversations that instill trust and intimacy – all of these are examples of effective marital communication. Good communication in marriage is the oil that lubricates the…
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Beautiful Picture
The other morning my husband and I were rushing. As always. I’m betting that you can relate. I was finishing up my make-up while mentally preparing for my first meeting. And there he was, bending down to give me his goodbye kiss. This time of morning is always a highlight. He left – and it struck me. I hardly remembered that kiss, and while I thought I’d said “I love you,” I wasn’t sure. I thought for a second, literally dropped my make-up to the floor, and ran down the stairs, catching him as he pulled out of the drive. His handsome face was priceless as I ran to the…
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10 Marriage Preparation Tips You Must Know
As a thirty-three year happily married woman who has counseled unhappy couples, here’s a marriage preparation tip: don’t overrate making a commitment in a relationship. But because I want you to be happy, I’m going to share some positive relationship advice. If you’re single and want to get married, by all means, enjoy your singleness while preparing mentally for marriage. Regardless of your relationship status, these tips will prepare you for a better life. And, who doesn’t want that? #1. Get to Know Your Spouse Back in 1991, my husband, Bobby Martin, and I formed a professional Top Alcohol Funny Car drag racing operation culminating in an NHRA US Nationals…
