I think there is a fallacy out there that your man has to be perfect for him to deserve your best effort in loving him. It's a lie. Give him your best. Be the initiator, and if he isn't a jerk, or abusive or a mistake, I'd bet he will reciprocate in ways that will surprise you.
I've been thinking about two topics. How to treat HIM and How to be a WOMAN. I'll write about the first topic today and tackle the latter later. I like saying that...latter later. Heh heh. Anyhoo...
How to treat your MAN.
Ever felt ambivalent in your marriage? I think it is not uncommon to have that loving feeling ebb and flow. Don't panic, it is just what happens in direct result to how we treat each other - not some sad nonsense the world tells you about "falling out of love". No such thing. The feelings we have for each other are always our fault, good or bad.
I love these ideas on how to make your man feel your love and how to make YOU feel love for your man:
- Never speak badly of your husband to anyone, ever.
-Compliment him in front of his friends and family or even your friends. Complement him in private. Compliment him in front of his children. Say something like, "Kids did you know your dad is the best ______?" or "Do you know why your dad is so awesome? Because he ______."
- Put a hand on his shoulder or face and tell him he is handsome. You might be in a place where it is hard to think of a compliment. Start small - start anywhere. If he isn't used to you doing that, he might be taken aback a bit. But he will feel good-whether he admits it, or not. Find a way to compliment him every day.
-BEST question to melt an icy heart..."What can I do for you today to make you happy?" Mean it and do it.
Offer a foot rub with lotion while you watch t.v. Ask what he would like you to cook for him one night. It doesn't have to be a huge thing...you know your guy.
-If you are a spiritual couple, pray as a couple at night, hold his hand when you kneel and express to God your gratitude for specific things your man has done, such as provide for your family, help with the kids- anything you admire or would miss about him if he were gone. On your own, pray for your husband, mention his specific challenges. You might mention to him he's been in your personal prayers.
-Think kindly of your partner and have a forgiving heart. If you find yourself silently arguing with him while you do the dishes, or wish he were THIS or wish he were THAT or why can't he just....Stop it. Appreciate the good he does and leave the fault finding behind. Ruth Bell Graham said, "Marriage is the union of two good forgivers". True that, Ruth. True that.
These are a few things I've learned and try to do...I'm not perfect at any of it...but when I do it, it brings my heart to a warm and loving place. It makes my home happy. What do you do to make your husband feel special and loved? I seriously want to know!
Next time, I'll share some thoughts on How to be a GIRL! :)
