Archive for ‘Marriage Resource Center’
May 22, 2013
You think you’re right. Your spouse thinks the opposite. Neither of you wins by making the other wrong. Try giving the benefit of the doubt to your beloved. Try it their way – at least once.
Gus Exerts His Will
Over the past few weeks baby Gus’ personality has started to emerge. “I can’t prove it,” says Dad, “but my intuition has started to tell me that he knows when he is doing something he is not supposed to be doing.”
May 21, 2013
(Reader’s Tip) When you get frustrated, pray for understanding.
May 20, 2013
Often the simple act of rebooting can remedy a computer problem. Sometimes marriages need a reboot. If a problem is not resolving readily, try this: Stop. Let both of you cool off. Forgive. Ask for a “do over.”
May 19, 2013
(Pentecost) “How does each of us hear them in our native language?” (Acts 2:1-11) Do you understand your spouse’s love language? Check out Gary Chapman’s bestseller, The 5 Love Languages.
May 18, 2013
One of the challenges to married couples is to know how to be life-giving. Natural Family Planning helps couples develop an attitude of welcoming children. NFP can also be used to space or limit family size, but an open heart goes a long way.
May 17, 2013
(Reader’s Tip) When he has long workdays I surprise him and drop off special treats at his office. It always re-energizes him, physically and mentally.
Why Family Life Is Now a Choice
“Family life doesn’t just happen; it is a decision, a choice,” say the Catholic bishops of Manitoba, Canada. Today, “perhaps more than ever before, we must choose to be a family.”
May 16, 2013
Is your lovemaking out of balance? This is a touchy topic but if your spouse is almost always the one who initiates physical intimacy, he or she may not be really satisfied – even if you say “Yes.” The real desire is to be desired. Take the first step.
May 15, 2013
A marriage rule you can break: “Never go to bed angry.” Although generally this is a fine rule, there are times when all this accomplishes is a tired body. Sleeping on it can provide a cooling off period and help you get fresh perspective.
Summer Goals
A friend’s unexpected visit makes Justin and Sarah realize how much they enjoy–and need–outside company. Read how they decide to broaden their world.
Us, Together
“For our 15th wedding anniversary, my wife took me mushroom hunting, and it was every bit as glamorous as you might imagine.” Fortunately, there was also a beautiful bed-and-breakfast and time away from the daily routine.
May 14, 2013
When you and your beloved are at loggerheads it’s hard to remember that your beloved is your beloved – not your enemy. He or she isn’t trying to be difficult; just trying to say that something is very important to him/her. Listen to the need.
A Catholic Mother’s Companion to Pregnancy
Drawing on the example of Mary and the saints, the author offers helpful guidance for pregnancy, childbirth and baptism. She reflects on the mysteries of the rosary, offers simple faith practices, and explains an element of Catholic belief related to each chapter’s theme. A perfect gift for a newly pregnant friend or family member!
May 13, 2013
(Reader’s Tip) When you wake up in the morning think of something you can do that would make your beloved’s day better. It can be big and special or small and helpful.
May 12, 2013
(Mother’s Day) “When a woman is in labor, she has pain, because her hour has come. But when her child is born, she no longer remembers the anguish because of the joy of having brought a human being into the world.” (John 16.21) What a difference a day makes.
May 11, 2013
Tomorrow is Mother’s Day. Great! Treat your own mother if she is still alive. For husbands: Help your children decide how to honor their mother, but don’t do it for them. Your wife is your best friend, not your mother.
Pope Francis Reflects on a Mother’s Demanding Role
As we celebrate Mother’s Day weekend, Pope Francis offer timely reflections on the role of mothers. A mother, he says, helps children to confront life’s problems without becoming lost in them.
May 10, 2013
(Reader’s Tip) Pray together daily, listen to each other and wait to respond until the other is finished speaking.
May 9, 2013
Christ ascended into heaven of his own power; the rest of us need a little help from our friends. What lifts your beloved up – a sunny day? a warm bath? a massage? an offer to do one of his/her chores? Jump up and lift up your beloved today.
May 8, 2013
Your spouse is not your competitor. Too often couples keep score on who cleaned more, took care of the kids last, or has the hardest job. You’re both on the same team. If somebody wins an argument, that means the other lost. The marriage loses.
When Life Gets Out of Control
Sara and Justin consider the question “Who will I trust to ensure my happiness?” Many people trust only themselves. But Sara says that since Gus’ birth, “God has really shown me in a million different ways that I am not in control.”
15th Anniversary
Will you celebrate your anniversary soon? Or perhaps you want to give your marriage a little tune-up. Stacey shares some thought-provoking questions to help you reflect on your relationship.
May 7, 2013
Sometimes couples get lucky and their personalities and families of origin mesh seamlessly. That’s rare. The blessing of having difficulties is that it forces the virtues of conflict resolution skills and dying to self. It can hurt but it’s a spiritual purification.
May 6, 2013
(Reader’s Tip) Love the whole person, especially their weaknesses.
