Iran’s Attack on Israel
6 min read
How to build a love that lasts.
Prioritizing your marriage can be a game-changer in a world full of distractions where it's easy to place someone or something else above your partner. When you and your partner consciously decide to put each other first, magic happens.
By nurturing a relationship where both partners' needs are met and a sense of unity prevails, you are laying the groundwork for a love that knows no bounds. By adopting a "marriage first" mindset, you invest not just in your relationship but also in a lifetime of shared goals, dreams, and successes.
When we try to mold our partners into idealized versions of who we think they should be, these false expectations and idealizations backfire and become a barrier to genuine connection and understanding. When we let go of preconceived notions and appreciate our partner's individuality, our relationship deepens as we foster an environment of acceptance and love. By releasing the urge to shape our partners into a mold of perfection and embracing their unique qualities, we pave the way for authentic understanding and intimacy rooted in acceptance and genuine love.
Our words hold power in relationships and can either build or harm our connection with others. It is crucial to communicate with kindness, honesty, and consideration, avoiding hurtful or thoughtless speech.
Similarly, using disrespectful language in relationships can harm the trust and respect between partners. When we slip into the habit of making snide comments or using disrespectful language, it can create a toxic environment where no one feels safe to express true thoughts and feelings.
Commit to speaking kindly, avoiding demeaning remarks, and approaching conflicts with empathy and respect, as words profoundly impact the dynamics of our relationships.
Neglecting our marriages in the chaos of daily demands is a silent but deadly trap. But we hold the power to break free from its grasp. Imagine the warmth of enjoying a leisurely date night, sipping morning coffee together, or engaging in activities that stir the embers of connection. These intentional moments are not just luxuries but necessities. They are the building blocks of an unbreakable bond. By investing in consistent, quality time, you're not just sharing moments – you're breathing life into your relationship.
Parents often find themselves in awe of the unique qualities and differences among their children. Imagine magnifying this perspective to appreciate the complexities within a marriage, even when both partners share a similar cultural background.
In my case, my husband's roots trace back to Poland during the aftermath of the Holocaust, where a rich European heritage shaped his upbringing. I come from a lineage deeply embedded in American history, marked by a secular lifestyle. When we first started dating, it was challenging to bridge that gap. But understanding, appreciating, and honoring our differences created a foundation built on compassion and empathy.
In the heat of the moment, it's not uncommon to make accusations and say hurtful things that we know will cause deep emotional wounds. While there may be no physical abuse, wounding the soul and psyche of our partners, especially when it is continuous, is akin to a death by a thousand cuts. When you understand the power of words and the importance of treating your partner with kindness and respect - even during disagreements - you will choose your words carefully and approach conflicts with empathy and understanding.
Infidelity destroys relationships. It's superficial to think adultery applies only to physical infidelity. Emotional infidelity occurs when one partner forms a deep emotional connection with someone else, often resulting in secrecy and breaches of trust. This can be just as damaging to a relationship as physical cheating.
Even if there are underlying causes, such as unresolved conflicts, lack of communication, or emotional intimacy, when individuals seek emotional support, validation, and companionship outside of their partnership, it can lead to feelings of betrayal and abandonment for their significant other. Seeking the assistance of a couple's therapist or relationship counselor may also be beneficial in navigating the challenges triggered by emotional infidelity.
Setting boundaries helps create a sense of safety and trust within the relationship, allowing both parties to feel comfortable expressing their emotions and needs. Without respect and emotional boundaries, relationships can become toxic and detrimental to the well-being of both individuals. Respecting your partner means valuing their feelings, opinions, and boundaries. It involves treating them with kindness, courtesy, and consideration, not trampling on their autonomy and privacy. By maintaining emotional boundaries, individuals can protect themselves and their partners from feeling overwhelmed, controlled, and invalidated.
It's a given that lies, secrecy, and a deceitful demeanor betray a relationship. But making false and unjust accusations, distorting our partner's words, and misconstruing their intentions is also a form of dishonesty. Using a partner's vulnerability and throwing their words back at them is also a profound breach of trust. Honesty and open communication are crucial in marriage to foster trust and respect between partners. When both partners can freely express themselves without fear of deceit or betrayal, they foster a foundation built on trust, respect, and open communication, contributing to the overall strength and longevity of the marital bond.
Especially in today's world of social media, where everyone posts their carefully curated life, it's hard to avoid comparing our lives to others. Mark Twain wisely noted that comparisons are the death of joy. It's also a relationship killer. Longing for what others have – or what you think they have – can turn any marriage toxic.
Refusing to surrender to the green-eyed monster in any of its forms is essential for a healthy and thriving relationship. A simple shift into a mindset of gratitude can transform your connection into a supportive and loving partnership, ultimately leading to a stronger and happier bond. Look within your marriage and appreciate the distinct qualities that make your relationship unique and special.
By embracing these ten fundamental principles, couples can cultivate a deep and lasting love that weathers the trials of time and strengthens their bond.
Wonderful!
Beautiful article with valuable advice to keep mindful of, thank you!
While prioritizing one’s partner is necessary, sometimes there will be other priorities for the couple or one spouse. We always put our young children’s needs first, by common agreement. Likewise, when either of our parents were gravely ill, or one of us had a major work deadline.
41+ years married, we must be doing something right!
Thanks!