Have you ever been hiking in the forest and come across a pond? If you have, you probably immediately noticed whether it was a pond that had an inlet with fresh water flowing or whether it was stagnant. If it was stagnant, you were probably more likely to see mosquitoes and other bugs. I doubt that at this point you turned to the family and said, “Let’s all jump in for a swim.” No, probably as you were plagued by thoughts of malaria, you hurried on quickly to find a fresh stream.
We know from a quick study of science that things tend to degrade. Water gets scummy, muscles atrophy, and machines wear out. If we want to keep things in top condition, we exercise them, oil them, and so on. Our significant relationships are no different. Too many seem to capture a spouse and then lapse into atrophy mode. When they stop working on their relationship, dissatisfaction and disharmony invariably creep in. Complacency grows quickly like algae on a stagnant pond. We don’t want to leap into that kind of a pond or that kind of relationship.
When we began dating, we usually shared, at some level, our hopes and dreams. This week I want to encourage you to journey back to that place. Begin to communicate with your partner about common goals, dreams, and visions that you would like to work towards. I recognize that may feel like an emotionally unsafe place to go. You may think he or she has no interest in common goals. But keep in mind, if I were suggesting this to him or her, they may be thinking that about you.
Venture out – wade into the pond, clear out the dead branches and allow some fresh water to enter the relationship. Life might just be around the corner. I would love to know what you find.