Several societal forces move marriage partners toward isolation and loneliness. But practical means are available to build the bonds that make a marriage grow stronger.
Make good use of these guidelines:
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Spoil your spouse . Little things mean a lot. A husband opening the door for his wife or a wife cooking her husband's favorite dish are simple ways to say "I love you" and "You are important to me." Do some of your mate's chores. But don't keep score by trying to split responsibilities and favors 50-50. Give 100 percent of yourself to your spouse.
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Offer sincere praise and verbally express your love . Say "I love you" and "Thank you" every day. Acknowledge and make use of each other's strengths and abilities.
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Keep disagreements private . Do not fight with our criticize your mate in front of others, especially children.
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Be a peacemaker . Here's an appropriate paraphrase of Matthew 5:9 to apply especially to marriage: "Blessed are those marriages that have peacemakers." Don't worry about who makes the first move to restore a relationship when a conflict remains unresolved. Just do it.
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Spend time together . Whether a weekend away from work or a walk around the block, time together is an investment in your marriage.
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Appreciate your partner's admirable qualities . Pay more attention to positive than negative traits in your mate.
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Give . Gifts do not have to be expensive. Handwritten notes or hand picked wildflowers are as valuable in showing appreciation as any purchased gift.
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Remember romance . Partners can take turns planning intimate evenings and other special occasions. GN
