Growing up, our home was peaceful for 11 hours a day, 5 days a week, while Dad was off at work or commuting. The rest of the time, it ranged from tense to bitter to surprisingly enjoyable, almost like those TV families. It was easy to believe Dad was at fault, at least until I was old enough to head into New York City and see Dad during his work day. He was a different person there. Why? Because...
Do you know what makes people angry? People — all people, not just husbands and wives and life partners — get angry when they feel they are being denied something they sincerely believe they have a right to. When your spouse is angry… Do you know what rightful thing or act you have denied your spouse? If not, try asking. Gently. Gingerly. Generously. As if you can’t...
What a lovely question today on an earlier post. Here’s what Susie asked. Hmm, just wondering about a phrase my partner uses and, by the way, so does my father to my mother! It goes like this: Him: Are you going out for lunch today? Me: No, why? Him: I saw something for the house this morning. If you go out at lunch time, you might want to get it. Me: What is it darling? Him: A fireguard. I...
Do you and your beloved love the same TV shows? Not us! Of course, there are some we agree on. The Good Wife is one, not one I would expect, as most relationship dramas are all mine. Glad it’s back. Royal Pains is another. And we’re both nuts for The Newsroom on HBO. Tonight, my husband is re-watching the finale of Breaking Bad. While I was able to sit through a few episodes, and I...
When the person who promised to love you and cherish you as long as you both live says something hurtful, it can be so hard not to take it personally. And this is why you must Assume Love. Assume Love does not mean anything like your colleague at work saying: “You must have misheard him. I’m sure he didn’t mean to hurt you. Just forget he ever said it. I’m sure things will...
