Last Tuesday I shared with you the story of David and Kelly and the manner in which their marriage began. We looked at some pettiness and disillusionment on their part, but then began to examine some truths that they have since learned. There are two additional tips that I want to propose today that can help make your meaningful relationships weather difficult times.
- Get rid of the Facebook fantasy! In an article on Marriage, Daniel Jones writes, “Pre-Internet, you had to be resourceful to flirt or fling with an old sweetheart. But these days we have Facebook: a world of bored people trolling for ex-flames. It you’ve been checking out Mr. or Ms. Perfect and dreaming about the nirvana you two could share, project into the future – to the messy divorce and ruptured lives, and to the challenges of a new relationship that will have its own agonizing fights. Is it really worth it?” Make it a policy for yourself to never do the Facebook Troll. To do so endangers the very underpinnings of the commitment that you made to your loved one.
- Lean on your friends when times are difficult. True friends are there for love and support. Too often we are embarrassed to let our friends know that our marriage or relationship is in trouble. It may not be until you have announced that you are getting a divorce that they even have a clue. Rather than have them show up to help you pick up the pieces of your life, why not allow them to rally around your marriage and support you through the difficulties.
Making the vows of commitment last is absolutely doable. Taking these two tips to heart can be steps toward that goal. What other tips have you learned that have strengthened your marriage or relationship?