Written by Laird Crump Is effective communication in marriage an art or a science? The correct answer is yes, and that’s not just a politically correct Irish response! Turn down the noise It’s important for couples to understand that effective communication in marriage has a mathematical side. In any conversation,…
Written by Dave Meurer The basic communication difference between men and women is this: · When men have something to say, they get right to the point. · When women want to say something, they eventually, in the fullness of time, after carefully outlining the background information and trying a…
Written by Mark Littleton We all go into marriage expecting certain things. Many of us have at least one of three common expectations – what I might call “marriage myths” – about how our spouses should fulfil our needs. When these expectations aren’t met, disappointment and conflict inevitably result. By examining…
Written by Josh Duvauchelle In the schoolyard, you probably gave your sweetheart a paper heart with “I like U a LOT” painstakingly scribbled on it in your favourite crayon colour. Since then, you’ve come a long way in terms of communicating your love to your spouse. But even the best marriage can…
by Shana Schutte When Ed married Mona, he adored her red hair and freckles. Ten years later, he still admired them. One evening, as he gazed upon her beauty, he said, “Honey, I just love your red hair and your freckles.” “No you don’t!” she snapped. Ed was shocked and hurt. I do…
By Meghan Baxter There are many reasons married couples need to live apart temporarily: military duty; long-term work or furloughs; immigration requirements; seasonal occupations; business trips; college or university studies; caring for sick or dying relatives. The list goes on and on. But how is it possible to remain connected…
Written by Dr. Juli Slattery We were sitting in our local coffee shop, sipping coffee and talking about everyday events. After a short lull in the conversation, my friend blurted out, “Dave wants a divorce.” Tears welled up in her eyes, and her expression fell, revealing the pain she had been…
Written by Phillip J. Swihart In-law relationships need a touch of civility. Consider the story of Stephanie, who complained, “My mother-in-law never approves of the way I do anything. The last time Joe and I visited her it happened again. Just trying to be nice and helpful, I washed all the…
Written by Teresa Turner Vining Karen couldn’t pinpoint when she and her husband started to drift apart, but she knew they were heading toward danger. She remembered how she used to anticipate her husband’s return home from work. Now his arrival seemed like an intrusion. She used to look forward…
