If a relationship is to thrive and keep growing, we must have regular time together.
At the very least, plan to spend 1-2 hours alone together each week; to rekindle romance, to have fun, to talk together about your feelings (e.g., your hopes, fears, worries, excitements.)
We call this marriage time.
Marriage time should have all the connotations of a “date” together.
The benefits of marriage time:
• keeps the fun and romance alive in our relationship
• deepens our understanding and appreciation of each other
• ensures we communicate regularly on a meaningful level
Plan time together
It doesn't happen automatically. Find the best time for you and book it in, just like you would any other social or business appointment.
Write it on your calendars e.g.; Monday evening, "marriage time" or Wednesday lunchtime, "marriage time."
If you are very busy, plan marriage time several months in advance.
Question:Complete the Worksheet you will find under "Extras" or in the Study Guide
The four seasons of marriage (not every marriage will go through each stage, but the principles apply to all marriages)
Spring
early years of marriage
season of discovery and excitement
initial infatuation will wear off at some stage
the greatest need is to accept each other
Summer
season of increased activity and demands
may become parents during this season
may face pressures of infertility
careers can be more demanding
the greatest need is to give time to the marriage relationship
Reflect on what you’ve heard so far. Talk together about the pressures you’ve worked through until now in your relationship, and the pressures you’re currently facing.
