Sweets are a weakness for me. I have always been tempted by anything sweet and sugary. I know from past experiences that instead of looking at the cookie and thinking about the cookie, I should stay away. Truthfully, it is not the first or even second look that gets me in trouble but when I continue to look and think about it.
A good friend recently asked me, “What curfew do you set for your kids?” He seemed shocked when I told him we didn’t really have a curfew. I told him that we only had four rules for our kids.
I was at a restaurant where the service was impeccable. It seemed the waiter anticipated my every need. Before I even noticed that my beverage was almost empty he was already bringing me a refill. He knew when I needed more napkins or needed plates removed. I felt valued, appreciated, and cared for. This is also what makes a great marriage work.
Scientific studies confirm that when you hear positive affirmations spoken over your life, it sends a very clear message to your brain that this is important to you. You begin to think this is who you are and you begin to behave consistent with the words that were affirmed.
We met with a couple who were having substantial problems in their marriage. When the subject of finances came up, we found that although they had been married for several years, they had not merged their finances. Separate money for husband and wife often creates problems.
Growing up, my dad was always intentional about teaching life lessons. There was one day in particular I remember dad's focus was teaching me about being a good husband. Dad asked, “Son, who is your dream woman?” At that time, I had a crush on Janet Jackson and of course she was the first name out of my mouth! He thought for a minute and asked, “Who else would you consider your dream girl?”
Mr. Curtis is a grill master, 82 years strong and like a father to me. Recently, Mr. Curtis came for a visit to show me how to make ribs the right way! As we spent the morning together over the coals, I found I not only learned to master the grill but took away some invaluable life lessons. Here are just a few of the life lessons learned while cooking with Mr. Curtis:
This past weekend I had the opportunity to officiate my sister-in-law’s wedding. My sister-in-law has always accused me of acting like her dad. Guilty as charged! I am as protective as any big brother should be! I didn’t know the groom very well when he proposed and I knew I either had to quickly stop this train or give my blessing. So I invited him for dinner to get answers to 5 questions that would let ME know if she was about to marry the right man.
I loved hanging out with my dad when I was a little boy. One of the things I remember is how he always opened the door for others. If he saw a woman or elderly person approaching a door, he would almost hurt himself in order to open the door for them. Sometimes he would just tell me to open the door. I liked doing it or I guess I liked the attention I got from doing it . . .especially from the pretty ladies.
Conflict is inevitable in a marriage. Every couple has disagreements. Conflict can be healthy for couples when they know how to complain without criticizing.
