The Choice is Ours: How Will We Respond?
Morning Pages Week Eight
I shared last week that I am going through the 12-week workbook “The Artist's Way.” As a part of the course, I write three pages in a journal each day. I am sharing a section of my writing each week with you. I would love your feedback on this new approach to my weekly Dispatch.
Yesterday, I was short with Nancy. I was irritated about something that had nothing to do with her at all. I do not have any idea why I do that - other than my selfishness. Why would I be short with her? In the big picture, it makes no sense. On top of that, I was frustrated with the way my favorite football team had played. Why do I let something like that bother me? There is nothing I can do about it and it doesn't really matter at all.
Nancy was asking questions because she was trying to understand something she knew I could help her with. I know that is how she processes. She has processed like that for our entire marriage. I need to listen better in those times. I need to really hear what she's saying or asking. Then I need to respond in a kind way and help her understand whatever it is the best that I can.
It goes back to the truth that I always have a choice in the way I respond. I know with God’s help, I can be more patient and understanding and be on the same team with her. That is what I choose to do.
Questions For You To Think About:
Do you listen well to your spouse?
When are you most vulnerable to be impatient with your spouse?
When you have a choice in the way you respond to your spouse, what choice will you make?
2 Minute Drill
My friend Gary Thomas recently joined me on a Facebook Live. Here is a clip from that conversation as we discussed “couple check-ins.”
Quick Hits:
This Week’s Quote: Charles Schulz
Charles was born on November 16, 1922. He drew the adventures of Charlie Brown and his friends in the comic strip Peanuts for almost 50 years. Health problems caused his retirement and he died of colon cancer just hours before his final Peanuts strip was distributed on Sunday, February 13, 2000. He was, without a doubt, one of the most influential cartoonists in history. Narrowing all of Charles Schulz quotes down to a couple to share with you has been difficult but here are two of my favorites!
"Learn from yesterday, live for today, look to tomorrow, rest this afternoon."
"Happiness is waking up, looking at the clock, and finding that you still have two hours left to sleep."
This Week’s Trivia Question
What is the number one best selling musical album of all time?
This Week’s Did You Know?
Cans of diet soda will float in water but regular soda cans will sink!
Awesome Marriage This week
AM Podcast: Avoid These 3 Premarital Mistakes: #2 Focus on the Wrong Things
As we continue this three part series, Lindsay and I talk about how easy it is for a couple to focus on the wrong things leading up to their marriage. Then we look at the things that will make a positive difference for the coming marriage.
AM YouTube Channel: This Week’s Vlog
Click on the link for this week’s vlog on the Awesome Marriage YouTube Channel!
AM YouVersion Plan: A Dad Named Jairus
Jairus is only mentioned once in the Bible. His daughter was dying and he reached out to the One that he knew could heal her. There is so much for us to learn from the story of this man. Join us in this four-day plan.
This Week’s Trivia Answer:
Michael Jackson’s Thriller.