My wife, Susan, made a guest post on my blog today. In it, she shares how we have marriage struggles too. Here are the ways she struggles with me in our relationship. Struggle #1. She doesn’t feel I hear what she says. Sure I listen, but there is sometimes a disconnect because she really doesn’t think I understand. Struggle #2. She thinks I’m a micro-manager in our home. I pay attention to the details, she sees...

Websites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are in the business of connecting people. Long-lost friends and classmates can be easily found, and relationships restored. But there’s a downside to social networking, too, especially when an old flame makes contact. In fact, marriages are breaking up over these “re-acquaintances.”  For some people, the temptation is just too much to handle. Your spouse should be...

This popular game shows the life-long struggle of birds trying to get back their stolen eggs from some pigs.  The birds defend each other and unite together, working toward a common goal.  Taking advantage of their unique talents, the kamikaze birds catapult themselves into the pig's towers to defeat them.  Marriage is kind of like that.  To have a healthy relationship, you need to defend each other and stand...

After suffering poor health for decades, composer Ludwig van Beethoven died in 1827 from lead poisoning. It was a slow and painful death. Bitterness in marriage is like that.  To find the antidote, we need to answer three questions.  First, what causes bitterness? Usually it’s not a single event, but several things that build up over time.  A wound here, an offense there… disappointment… betrayal. Second, what’s...

Valentine’s Day can be a bit uncomfortable for many couples and for many reasons. Here are a few culprits and what you can do about them. First, it can be awkward when you haven’t been romantic in a while. The solution? Don’t use this day to become Romeo or Juliet all of the sudden. But do use it as a springboard to launch your heart back into the relationship.  Second, it can be awkward figuring out what to give....

If you have, make up your mind that you will never use it again.  The “D” word is divorce.  It can come up when you’re fighting, “I’m sick of you – I want a divorce!”  Or when things aren’t perfect, “If you do that again, I’m outta here!”  Well, you need to replace a divorce mindset with a commitment mindset.  You see, if divorce is even an option, you’re more likely to consider it.  Are you thinking about getting...

Renew your wedding vows.  It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate.  You can even surprise your children.  Just tell them you have something planned for this Valentine’s night.   When the time comes, repeat the same vows you took on your wedding day, or use different words.  The point is to show each other and your kids how committed you are to your marriage.  Finish up the evening showing them your wedding album...