Life comes with problems that insult our expectations. As a hospice grief counselor I walk into sadness on a daily basis. Guess what I hear most often from those who invite me into their pain? Love stories. Their tears are followed many times with laughter as they celebrate in their hearts the attributes of this person they cherished. For those who stayed close to the patient during the last days of their life, they are left with great peace. For those who stayed away, we talk about their regret.
Category: Soul
Whispers of Influence: Illuminating the Hidden Dynamics in Marriage
What we are really talking about is what is influencing our marriage. Is it well intended friends who are frustrated in their own marriages, is it competition, and listening to the worlds view about marriage? Are you viewing your marriage is a place to prove women are the victim and men are the oppressor where we must fight for our rights? These influences sneak into our marriage can be destructive.
Words Left Unsaid
Sudden death is, by its very nature, unexpected. We all think we’ll have the next moment, hour, day, month, year to express feelings and speak the love we hold for those dear to us. January 3, 2024, ended my chance to say, to my husband, words left unsaid. I was rushing that day, in a…
Are Your Fears Holding Back the Love You Deserve?
When we really dive deep into this thought of how powerful the emotion of fear is, we can see it at the root problem of our relationship. And the worst part is we don’t want to admit it. Not the husband or you the wife. Somehow, we feel if we admit we have fears, even to ourselves, we will lose the edge. We see it as a weakness, so we get stronger and stronger in holding on to the idea I am right and you are wrong.
Just Ordinary People
(a surprise “Rest of the Story” to blog post “Earth Angels and the Jaws of Life”) On August 23, 2023, my husband, Scott, and I heard horrific sounds. We ran toward the sound and ended up aiding the of victims of a three-car crash that happened at the entrance of our neighborhood. We both assisted…
Is Procrastination Slowly Sabotaging Your Marriage?
How is procrastination slowly destroying your marriage? Again, here is the definition of Procrastination: “Delaying or postponing tasks, often despite knowing this may lead to negative consequences.” What does this bring to mind about your marriage? Are you and your spouse sleeping in separate bedrooms because he snores and you haven’t found a better solution? Has your daily schedule gotten so full, you’re exhausted and drained and have nothing left for your spouse? Whatever your personal situation is, you know you are procrastinating about, it is your personal thing.
Is Your Marriage Ready for It’s Last Year?
We only get this one physical life here on earth. Is your marriage everything it could be? What could you focus on that would improve your marriage? Is it being present and listening? Are you guilty of taking on a role like his mother instead of his best friend and lover? Literally go there, emotionally, what would you regret? Looking at your marriage from this perspective, does it give you some moments of clarity, a sense of urgency? I think this is something we can all check with ourselves on! Use this idea!
The Role of Self Discovery in a Thriving Marriage
Sometimes in life we can get stuck in a place of scarcity and fear. We start playing the game of life to not lose instead of looking at this incredible life that is a gift and create an offense. I believe that’s how God has designed us. I believe he wants us to be optimistic, grateful, and confident. He wants us to use the gifts and talents that make us unique. When you look at your children, don’t you want the best for them. I believe that’s what God wants for us.
In a Fog
What is the “elevator speech” to your life? Who is in your sphere of influence? Do you offer a message that builds up those who are near, whether friend or stranger? Do you thank those who offer words of encouragement and let them know how they have blessed you? When faced with overwhelming challenges, do you scan your surroundings for messages that embolden you to use your gifts or do you throw in the towel and let others deal with it?
Using Goal Setting to Create An Incredible Marriage
Ask yourself the question: If my marriage were everything I would want it to be, what would that look like? This is going to be very important. We can be our own worst enemies, giving up hope and getting stuck in an old mindset. The new year, is the perfect time to take a fresh look. It’s your life. The same-old is always available.