How Far Does Communication Really Go?

Communication is key in a relationship, but it needs to be the correct type. Everything we say is associated with a deeper level of communication, often expressed through tone and nonverbal cues. The most important aspect of communicating effectively is putting forth your greatest effort to truly listen. As much as you may try to put your point across, there is no purpose in trying to talk if you are not willing to understand what the other person is trying to say. Sincerely putting yourself in their situation and striving to understand not only their words, but the meaning and feelings behind them, will allow you to come to a deeper connection with your spouse or whoever else you converse with.
Transparency in communication is not the same as being brutally honest. Some couples believe that in order to truly understand each other every idea or thought that comes to mind needs to be shared. This is not the case. There are definitely situations where communication is strongly encouraged, but there are also certain topics that are better left alone. It is common belief that if a problem is not discussed it will become bottled up and will explode which does happen very often. However, some issues that we find ourselves dealing with are very one sided and petty. There are many instances where we should first analyze our own thoughts and feelings before deciding how to react.

Dealing with Family Crisis

Every family experiences moments when they go through difficult times and hardships. Each circumstance is different, some more challenging than others. These family stressor can range anywhere from problems between interpersonal relationships among the family to destruction of the home. Whatever the case may be, each trial the family undergoes will be an opportunity to allow them to become closer to one another or pull them apart.
Family stressors usually lead up to the event of a "family crisis". Families can deal with these situations properly by focusing on their love for one another. As they look outside of themselves and work towards building each other up, they will find that they have developed a sturdy support system.

Marital Intimacy and Communication

Intimacy in marriage is a special gift that allows the husband and wife to express their complete love for one another and become one. Along with this sacred privilege comes the responsibility to treat it with the upmost respect and appreciation. The most important way a couple can do this is through effective communication.
Many people are opposed to the idea of communicating personal thoughts and feelings during intimacy in fear of creating awkward tension. In reality, communicating your feelings allows your spouse to know that you appreciate them and all that they do for you. Your partner will be confident enough to move forward because they know that their efforts are gratified. Feelings of discomfort should always be expressed. Avoiding this crucial step creates an unnecessary environment of displeasure between both husband and wife.

Choosing Love

A common excuse for divorce today is to say that they "fell out of love". Over the years they came to realize that the love that they once felt for one another had since expired and the flame of their love had dimmed. How do couples reach this point in their relationship?
The biggest reason for this tragic ending to a relationship is that couples don't effectively exercise their agency. Husbands and wives need to make the decision everyday to love each other. Just like we have to make decisions daily, the love that we have for our spouse needs to be one that we choose everyday. A way to develop this skill is to recognize things that you love about your partner. It is tempting to say that you notice too many things about them that bother you, especially after the "infatuation period" has ended. Focusing on the positive things and striving to appreciate your significant other will almost always overpower the negative.