Relationship, Marriage, and Family Posts

“I believe that appreciation is a holy thing and when we look for what’s best in a person we happen to be with, at the moment, we’re doing what God does all the time. So, in loving and appreciating our neighbor we’re participating in something sacred.”  Fred Rogers How do we show appreciation to our…

When someone hurts our feelings, it is hard to see beyond three choices: Have an angry confrontation Say nothing but get even Say nothing and feel bad Three examples: Bill felt angry at recent actions from his neighborhood HOA board. He fired off an angry email to the president. The president became defensive and forwarded…

  In a great relationship there is RECIPROCITY and the POWER is shared.  Both people’s thoughts, feelings and preferences are important.  But some people are emotionally unhealthy and unable to negotiate relationships in that manner.   Emotionally unhealthy partners don’t comprehend the concept of MUTUALITY because they need POWER OVER.    Here are some questions…

Why Did You Do That? No one likes to be challenged about their mistakes.  It is human nature to get defensive and argumentative when questioned. The brain seems to shut down with a “why” question.  For example, can you remember as a child being asked a question like, “Why did you spill the milk?”  Do…

Empathy is not only vital in presidential races but in communities and families as well. How the election turned on one empathy-lacking phrase from Hillary.

Family gatherings with difficult people can be demanding on our emotional resiliency. But keep in mind four basic rules for successful holiday gatherings.

Before you decide you’re in love, go through these questions and think about the character of the person you are considering marrying.

We need to roll with resistance to avoid the harms of the righting impulse.

Using these strategies, it is possible to fight successfully with unfair people and either find common ground or maintain your integrity and self esteem.

Research shows that those who can create significant relationships are happier. Here are 10 ways to show more love.

Principles of successful relationships from my father’s life.

Follow the good samaritan’s example of relationship boundaries to avoid burn out.

Too often married woman are loyal to their partners but aren’t in love and they don’t feel cherished. When a woman doesn’t feel loved she can become critical, unresponsive and have a low sexual desire.

Let adult children take responsibility for their choices and express faith in them to change their situation.

Healthy couples signal each other frequently that they are important to each other and what matters to you, matters to me.

Listening well to our family and friends is the kindest and most compassionate response.

spouses who are emotionally generous with each other are happier. Check to see you are as interested in meeting your partner’s needs, as you are your own.

Due to the complex nature of the job, many mothers become efficiency experts, and on job psychologists but Lillian Gilbreth researched, documented and publish her work. I salute her as a role model and visionary beyond her time.

“If this is love, why do I feel so bad?” is NOT a mantra for healthy relationships. If you are questioning the quality of your romantic relationships here are some insights.

When listening is done well, it will raise your self esteem and others who you care for.

“I” messages are the most effective way to communicate in our relationships. In “I” messages, you own the problem.