Starting Marriage Right

Since I think Michael William's experience and advice is superb, I have added another article from him. This is about how you can start your marriage off right, and if you've already started your marriage how to keep it strong. It can even help those who are struggling in their marriage.

http://www.michaelwilliamscounseling.com/?p=168

Reinvesting in your Relationship

A therapist here in Rexburg that I greatly admire, wrote an article about how to kindle a relationship when you are a couple and how to reinvest in your marriage.

http://www.michaelwilliamscounseling.com/?p=319

People will change... and that's okay.

If you happen to have come across this blog and think that maybe divorce is an option for you, I would encourage you to read this article.

http://themattwalshblog.com/2014/05/29/wife-person-married/

Divorce

Research has shown that second marriages can end in divorce quicker than first marriages. “Thus, a substantial fraction of newly formed marriages involve individuals who are at risk of a second marital disruption, and the rate at which these marriages dissolve is even higher than for first marriages.” (Teachman, 2008). 

This article is a life experience by someone who was dealing with the thought of her husband wanting a divorce, and the fact that she wouldn't let it happen. Divorce doesn't always have to happen, even if it's your significant other wanting it.

http://m.theweek.com/article/index/99512/he-said-he-was-leaving-she-ignored-him

Teachman, J. (2008). Complex life course patterns and the risk of divorce in second marriages.

Journal of Marriage and Family, 70(2). 

Eternal Marriage

Eternal Marriage is like silverware

"If you want something to last forever, you treat it differently. You shield it and protect it. You never abuse it. You don’t expose it to the elements. You don’t make it common or ordinary. If it ever becomes tarnished, you lovingly polish it until it gleams like new. It becomes special because you have made it so, and it grows more beautiful and precious as time goes by." --F. Burton Howard

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErAgsW3-eGQ

Book recommendations for those struggling in marraige

The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work

John Gottman, Ph.D.

Why Marriages Succeed or Fail and How You Can Make Your Last

John Gottman, Ph.D.

Love and Respect Workbook: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately Needs

Emerson Eggerichs

The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate

Gary Chapman

Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love

Sue Johnson

Getting the Love You Want: A Guide for Couples

Harville Hendrix

Find more recommendations at:

http://www.mastersincounseling.com/love-on-the-rocks-top-12-books-for-troubled-marriages

Divorce tears a family apart

My husband's parents were divorced when he was not yet a teen and it had a large impact on his life. It seems that his perspective of marriage and family was altered because of the divorce. He has shared personal feelings with me and I know that the divorce had some negative effects on him. Divorce can be a blessing to those who are in an abusive or violent relationship! We do not ignore that divorce can be a saving grace in these types of homes. However, we believe that when a husband and wife work together, forgive, and develop positive attributes, they can learn to overcome their struggles and work through issues that may lead to divorce. We do not deny that marriage takes work and effort, however we know that when that work and effort is put forth, marriage can be a wonderful blessing!