Where was I?
Oh, yes, spiritual reflection.
Mr. B and I decided to attend a special sunday school class in our new ward: Marriage and Family Relations. We have a couple reasons for choosing this class: one, it is a smaller class so allows the Queen to run as wild as she wants and two, every couple, and family, needs spiritual help in their marriage and family relationships.
My degree specialized in marriages and families. I can name sources, research, and helpful books when questions arise about communication. But, because I know it does not mean I apply it.
For example, when discussing positive communication I can throw out Gottman's name like its nothing. Naming his four horseman without second thought. However, I am still guilty of nagging, pointing out the negative, and other evils in my marriage relationship.
In the lesson, Elder Hinckley (before he was the prophet) provides wonderful counsel for every man and wife.
Companionship in marriage is prone to become commonplace and even dull. I know of no more certain way to keep it on a lofty and inspiring plane than for a man occasionally to reflect upon the fact that the help-meet who stands at his side is a daughter of God, engaged with Him in the great creative process of bringing to pass His eternal purposes. I know of no more effective way for a woman to keep ever radiant the love for her husband than for her to look for and emphasize the godly qualities that are a part of every son of our Father and that can be evoked when there is respect and admiration and encouragement. The very processes of such actions will cultivate a constantly rewarding appreciation for one another.I completely agree. As I seek out the "godly qualities" of my husband I will be far less likely to criticise.
Sunday is such a spiritually rejuvenating day. I am so glad for church, even if it is 3 hours long and happens to be during the Queen's nap time. Even if I get to suffer through tantrums and whining.
What a beautiful quote - thanks so much for sharing that! I wish I applied even half the things I know. Ah, such a difference between knowledge and wisdom (the application thereof)!
ReplyDeleteGreat post. Wonderful quote. My husband and I went through the Marriage and Family Relations class--it is great.
ReplyDeleteApplication is what it's all about. Spiritual reflection is critical to understand what, where, and how we need to apply. (Something I definitely need to work on, so thank you for the reminder)
Ah, the four horseman. Always creeping in there where you don't want them to be. My hubby and I had the opportunity to teach a new Marriage class in our stake. We learned so much. It doesn't matter what you know, the refreshers are always worth it. Even with a one-year-old at church.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by my blog and commenting. It's nice to "meet" you. :)