In order to make married life truly “work”, it requires responsibility, dedication, communication, and compromise on both parts. No one is saying marriage is always easy, it isn’t, but there are things that can help lighten the load. And this includes letting go of annoying habits that, over time, can drive a wedge between you and your partner and can add unnecessary tension … [Read more...]
10 Things I Learned About Marriage from Watching the Obamas
When I look at relationships that I aspire to resemble in my own marriage, I look no further than our President and First Lady. To me, the Obamas are the epitome of a healthy, loving, marriage. As President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle conclude their last days in office, I want to thank them for being a wonderful example of marriage. Here are ten lessons I learned … [Read more...]
Have We Lost Our Sense Of Community: “Sunday Soul” Finds A Way Back
Do you know what love looks like? Not romantic love or self- love, but the kind of selfless love we show to one another as human beings. One of the greatest traditions in the African-American community is taking care of and looking out for one other. Kids growing up on the block would be looked after by family, friends, neighbors, and strangers alike, because … [Read more...]
How to Diffuse Conflict in a Relationship BEFORE it Goes Too Far
Although many wouldn’t admit it, I am willing to put out there that conflict is common in all relationships. Marriage like any relationship isn’t always easy to navigate and as a result conflicts/disagreements will arise. They say opposites attract; so when you take two individuals with different life experiences and backgrounds, pepper in colorful personalities, unique … [Read more...]
I Love You but I Don’t Always Like You
*This post was inspired by conversations with some good friends, all of whom have been married for over 15 years. I’ve said before how complicated love can be. Anyone who has ever been in love can understand what I mean when I say you can love someone even when you don’t always like them. I know I’m not the only one who has ever been in a romantic relationship where (once … [Read more...]