Sign up for our free newsletter:

 2 of 3

Put down the newspaper. Set aside the novel. Turn off the TV. Look into your partner's eyes. Don't interrupt or offer unsolicited advice. By giving undivided attention, you communicate a priceless message: You are important to me. I want to understand your thoughts. One husband, Doug, takes it a step further. When his wife, Donna, says, "Doug, we need to talk," he stops whatever he's doing and reaches for her hand or her shoulder.

"This makes me feel as though he's on my side," says Donna. "His actions tell me that whatever the issue is, we'll face it together."

If your opinions differ over a particular issue, carefully and openly consider the other's perspective and try to reach a mutually satisfying decision.

Husbands, your wife works full-time whether she's a corporate CEO or stay-at-home mom. Recognize her responsibilities. Express your appreciation for all she does, then give her a special treat—a bubble bath extraordinaire. Light a candle in the bathroom. Fill the tub with hot water and frothy bubbles. Let your bathing beauty soak solitaire while you put the kids to bed, then surprise her! Plug in the CD player, add romantic music, and climb in with her!

Thank your mate for his or her contributions to your marriage. Then give time to develop personal skills or interests. For instance, Rita gave her husband, Irwin, a coupon that read: "Accept my gift of guilt-free time alone, apart from family responsibilities. Each week for the next year, spend one evening doing whatever you choose."

Thrilled with the present, Irwin spent Thursday evenings building a kayak. "I worked guilt-free, knowing Rita wasn't wishing I was home to help with the kids," he says. "She allowed me to be me. Her thoughtfulness meant more than an expensive gift." If Rita had experienced a tough week, Irwin opted to stay home—after all, the coupon gave him freedom to do as he pleased.

Prayer and practical acts of service go a long way. For 20 years I longed to pursue writing, but circumstances never seemed right. My husband, Gene, knew my desire and prayed with me for direction. Finally, when an opportunity arose to attend a writers' conference, he encouraged me to go even though it meant being away from home for a week.

"I'll watch the kids," he said. "You've waited long enough. Spread your wings and fly!" He tucked little notes into my suitcase and carry-on bag to let me know he was cheering for me.

next page... |  2 of 3

				Try 3 Issues of Christianity Today Free! Name Street Address City/State/Zip E-mail Address Subscribe to Christianity Today and get 3 free trial issues. No credit card required. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. Offer valid in U.S. only. If you decide you want to keep Christianity Today coming, honor your invoice for just $19.95 and receive nine more issues, a full year in all. If not, simply write "cancel" across the invoice and return it. The three trial issues are yours to keep, regardless.

RSS Feed   RSS Help