The chapter that I studied
this week is titled Foundational
Processes for an Enduring, Healthy Marriage. Spencer W. Kimball states,
“while marriage is difficult, and discordant and frustrated marriages are
common, yet real, lasting happiness is possible, and marriage can be more an
exultant ecstasy than the human mind can conceive. This is within the reach o
every couple, every person.”
The first foundational
process explained for a healthy marriage is having personal commitment to the
marriage covenant. The text says, “marriage is a purposeful, divinely created
relationship not merely social custom, and that couples have God-given covenant
obligations to one another.” Elder David A. Bednar has created a diagram that
shows the importance of the relationship between husband, wife, and Heavenly
Father.
The second foundational
process is love and friendship. The proclamation explains that husband and wife
have the responsibility to love and care before any other marital obligation or
virtue. The text explains it as, “marriage lights the way and draws attention
to other virtues couples may wish to foster in their marriage.” For a couple to
have a nurturing and loving friendship, they can get in sync with their
partner’s love preferences, talk as friends, respond to bids for connection,
and set goals for couple interaction.
The third foundational
process is positive interaction. Positive emotions toward one’s spouse are
vital to a healthy marriage. Negative emotions, if they occur frequently and
are allowed to deepen, can threaten a marriage. To enhance positive interaction
in marriage, focus on your spouse’s positive qualities.
The next three foundational
processes are accepting influence from one’s spouse, respectfully handling
differences and solving problems, and continuing courtship through the years.
To conclude, the text states, “be intentional about doing things every day to
enrich the marriage, and to spend at least 5 hours a week strengthening your
relationship.
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