This past Saturday we had a political convention to go to in the Twin Cities area. My sister kindly watched our kids for us while we went. At this convention Ken had decided to step out on a limb so to speak and really work at promoting a man who we would like to be our next governor. Ken made up fliers to support him and so forth. One of the ways I was able to show my love to Ken was by helping him in this endeavor and then when it went very well I was able to rejoice with Ken and tell him that he did a good job. He knew that it had gone well - largely thanks to him - but he still really appreciated me telling him so.
Last night we had another opportunity to encourage our marriage. It was rather spur of the moment. Ken needed to go get some stuff from Menards for our stair project and he asked if anybody wanted to go along. Usually several of the kids will jump at the chance to go with Dad but yesterday they all seemed to be busy with something else. I was busy too - doing dishes but decided that could wait (or actually be done by someone else) and I offered to go. That is rather unusual for us to leave the kids and head off to do errands together but with Mara being 14 it is fine. Ken looked surprised but rather happy to have me offer. So off we went, hand in hand, to buy boards for our stairs. The date didn't last very long nor was it super exciting but it was fun to just have that little bit of time together.
Your husband does appreciate what you say and do. Here is another neat post that I ran across tonight that has 62 ideas of things you can say that will make your husband feel great.
Do you find that your husband really appreciates your encouraging or loving words?
On the flip side, I learned this weekend how discouraging it can me to my husband when my words are not kind. Ouch! Lesson learned, and it was a good opportunity to talk through the trial.
ReplyDeleteGood point Angie! Thanks for sharing your lesson with us.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post. You are so right. We all need words of encouragement, respect, affirmation, but our men need even more, I think. It's an easy thing for me to forget. I'm working on it and my role as a wife as God designed the role to be. I just finished reading a great new book that aligns so well with what you're saying. It's Biblical, challenging and affirming. "The Wholehearted Wife: 10 Keys to a More Loving Relationship," by Erin, Greg and Gary Smalley. Fresh in my mind is one of my favorite quotes, "If you want to have a more loving relationship with your husband, remember that he's a gift from God, a treasured possession - just as you are. As a Wholehearted wife, seek to honor him each day by cherishing him and affirming his value. Treat him like a Stradivarius!" I highly recommend it!
ReplyDeleteHeather, Thanks so much for the comment and the book recommendation. It sounds like a good one.
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