The kids are yelling, dog is barking, and you just found out that your spouse forgot to do one thing that you needed them to do today…again! This scenario may sound typical for your family, or your scenario could be worse. Maybe you and your spouse are arguing more and more, and connecting less and less? You may have even asked yourself, “Is this marriage a mistake?”. Though you knew your life wouldn’t be like Brady Bunch, you may find yourself surprised at just how much work a marriage can be – and its twice as hard if only one person is working at it.
If this is your situation, ask yourself why you married your spouse? I know it sounds silly, but really…why did you marry them? “Because we were in love”- well, that’s easy answer-go deeper. See, life happens…kids are born, cars breakdown, jobs are lost, and through all of ups and downs that are inevitable, its important that you remember why you married this person.
Reflect:
1-Think of first time you saw your spouse. What is one thing that stood out to you about them? 2-Remember one time when you were sad, angry or disappointed and your spouse really came through for you. What happened? How did it make you feel? 3-What is one thing funny thing you know about your spouse that no one else knows? 4-Think back to your single life, before you met your spouse. What was it like? Now, really think – what is one small thing your spouse does to make you happy that you are here and not back there? 5-Remember a time when your spouse did something out of ordinary and surprised you. What did that moment feel like? 6-Remember first time you saw your spouse holding your child. How did that make you feel? Remind:
1-In a quiet time when both you and your spouse are sitting together, bring up your first date. Bring up your happiest memories of this day. 2-Think of a funny story about when you first were married – good choices are dinners gone bad, ruined laundry, etc. 3-Talk about when you first became parents. What were your fears and hopes. Mention something positive about their parenting, and their connecting to your children.