Love Map
Who
knew such a thing existed? I suppose “map” is a good word, we need a map to
navigate our way around our town or another country, why not our spouse? In
every marriage there are hills and valleys, highways and byways, mountains and
molehills. How well do we know our spouse?
I didn’t know this guy
very well, even after our daughter was born. We are from two different worlds.
I have very involved parents, he doesn’t. I only had one sibling to get along
with, he had five. My family is very active in church, his isn’t. We had
different concepts about what child rearing was. Over the years, many date
nights, family upheavals, and trial later, I would say we are in a much better
place. I guess I envy those who don’t have to struggle in their marriage. But.
I wonder if they really get along if they don’t have those struggles to help
them grow up and close together.
We
have made date night a priority ever since our oldest could babysit. We even
considered running to town for a gallon of milk a date. It got us out of the
house together to unwind and reconnect. Dates don’t have to be elaborate or
expensive. Sometimes we take the dog for a walk, sometimes we go out to dinner
and once in a while, to a movie, but it has to be a good one. 😊
Nurturing love, admiration, and fondness
What does it mean to
nurture? Google defines nurture as to “care for and encourage the growth or
development of” and “the process of caring for and encouraging the growth or
development of something or someone.” Some synonyms are tend, rear, raise,
support, foster. When we nurture a relationship, we are tending to that person
and their feelings, fostering their growth and love, and caring for them
through thick and thin. Letting your significant other know how much you
appreciate them and the things that they do for you, or showing your love in a
plethora of fun and interesting ways can enhance your relationship. It is when
we drop the emotional ball or think we are “good” that things can turn sour.
We should treat our relationship like
that little seedling we just planted.
The more we water it, spend quality time with it, trim back those
withering leaves or unsightly branches, we will see it grow into a beautiful
being. With a strong root system, our branches will grow tall and sprout with
many leaves, flowers and fruit. It will be a sight to behold. But, it takes
time, and lots of it. We need to be patient, just like the Lord is with us. Our
progress is eternal, and so should be our relationships with our spouse and
children.
