When is the last time you told your spouse that you love him or her? That you appreciate them? That you are grateful for the ways they tolerate your crazy antics? Maybe it has been too long. While we know those are good things to communicate, right now doesn’t seem like a good time. I’m…
I am frequently amazed at individuals who seem to believe it is their God-given purpose, to keep their spouse humble. That person will point out every mistake that their husband or wife makes, correct each perceived error, and avoid giving praise, even when it is deserved. They will then explain to me their rationale –…
You just got home from the dentist and told your wife that he wanted $200 to fix a tooth. While he had explained to you the risk of waiting to get it fixed, such as breaking the tooth and then needing a root canal, you just don’t want to shell out the money right now. …
I can imagine what you are thinking as you read that title – “well duh, of course I have been in love.” I realize that. We have been in love with our – 1st grade teacher, the red-headed girl on the playground, the new student sitting across from us in our freshman college class, or…
“I met one woman in Georgia who has been married to her husband for over 60 years. After being asked for her best relationship advice, she paused and then said, ‘Don’t be afraid to be the one who loves most.” – Nate Bagley I thought about this advice as I sat this week with a…
We look at indicators all the time – the gas gage tells us the car is empty or full (or somewhere in between); the thermostat can tell us how hot or cold our house is; or the altimeter in a plane can keep us informed regarding the elevation at which we are flying. But is…
You have just returned from you annual physical somewhat stunned. Your doctor has told you that your cholesterol numbers are through the roof and you have to cut down your carb intake and get on the treadmill multiple times per week. More specifically, he said, “If you want to be around for your grandkids –…
When I was growing up, I had a pretty good idea of what courage was. In high school I read the book, Profiles in Courage. People would talk about heroes on the battlefield or leaders who would stand with principles against discrimination. We would read the history of people who remained true to their faith,…
“There are just two things I’d need to find out everything I want to know about everyone: 1) Let me see them drive; 2) Let me hear them talk about marriage . . . . That’s going to tell me exactly your relationship to the world.” – Jerry Seinfeld Most of us would probably agree…
“The stories we love are filled with struggle, conflict, and failure, yet so often the stories we present to others are a highlight reel of accomplishments, perfect meals, and sunny days.” – Brian Bailey. As I reflect upon this quote, I realize the many ways that we see the truth of his statement. Think about…