Tuesday, April 25, 2017

Consciously Thankful for a Happy Marriage

As I'm experiencing all the golden moments of this year, I try to remain conscious of all the things I'm thankful for. 

This particular morning I was inadvertently engaged in a conversation with a fellow mom at the boys' school that I have often simply said "hello" to or had quick polite conversations with.  It turns out that this mom is a single-mom who became that way when she caught her husband in bed with a woman in their home.  She has since had to navigate the tricky world of co-parenting with a man who isn't exactly fully participating in her children's lives.  She cheekily referred to her children's father as D.B.D (dead beat dad). More scandalous behavior was revealed, but the gist of the conversation is that she survived all of it, has hit rock bottom & is wiser, stronger & better for it now.  Her kids seem well-adjusted & she seems like an amazing mom.  I admire everyone who has risen above their circumstances! It's easy to be a victim and so much more character-building to focus on the positive things in life and allow yourself to be a better person everyday.
This morning's conversation leads me to continue on my path to constant gratefulness for all the blessings that surround me.  I'm certainly no expert at relationships and despite 16 years of marriage claim no masterful words of wisdom for those seeking advice on long-term unions. Sometimes, I feel like I just "lucked-out" with a husband who is also a best-friend, a man that I not only love with all my heart, but one that I actually like too. 😊 And let's be real, no one is perfect. If that's what one is seeking, I wish you all the luck in the world because that's going to be a tough search. Here's what one article suggests:
  • Don't wait for Valentine's Day to celebrate.
  • Try new experiences together.
  • Keep tabs on each other.
  • Communicate
  • Argue and make-up.
  • Keep each other on your toes.
  • Have sex at least once a week. 
Source: 7 Things Happy Couples Do Differently

Like I said, I'm no expert, but these words of advice sound very solid to me. In my own marriage, compromise, forgiveness, communication and laughter are constant and revolving elements. If you're in a happy & loving relationship, always be thankful. If you're single, be okay with that. There are so many amazing things to be thankful for.  Live thankfully. That is one advice I solidly stand with.

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