My Family Coach: Women Discuss Life, Relationships & Parenting

1/3/11

Marriage Feast

The table is set
waiting for its guests.
Shall we sit down and
savor the repast
or walk away empty,
feeling deprived?
The choice is ours,
to enjoy or destroy.
The choice is ours.

Most couples don't realize they can choose how to react to the difficulties in their relationship. Too often, each spouse blames the other for the pain that results from feeling attacked and/or maligned.

Yet the venue of a marital relationship provides the potential for tremendous individual growth and relationship depth (see NY Times article). It is neither a simple nor easy process and many people, hopeless from the start, don't give it a try.

To develop a strong relationship each spouse needs to be truthful, courageous and committed. With these essential elements, however, the couple can learn how to mix and blend their personalities. They can study the recipe and, alone or with the help of an experienced chef, learn how to use their natural flavors and unique ingredients to create a luscious, long-lasting feast.

Preparing a healthy meal is time-consuming and labor intensive. There are no short-cuts.