Are you disappointed? Are you in mourning for our country? For our world? Does it seem off-kilter? I wouldn’t be honest if I didn’t say something about this past week. I had hopes something would be revealed and just like in the movies–and even in my own life–the ending would be different. It wasn’t.

In the mail yesterday, I received a rejection letter–not the first and it won’t be the last–which added to a more depressing day.

Last week I talked about New Year’s resolutions. My practice of reading Scripture and talking to God before checking my emails, staying off of Facebook and other social media has been great benefit to my psyche. Perhaps you don’t go to those medias as I have, but there are other distractions. The morning newspaper. Unopened mail that must be opened–you think. A favorite book. The latest news on TV. Chores that just must be completed. You hit the snooze button too many times before your day begins.

I can tell you I have been following through on my resolution for a couple of weeks now, and I feel better, more settled! Yes, there are still disappointments in my world, but I am reminded of what I read early in the morning.

Why are you depressed, O my soul?
Why are you upset?
Wait for God!
For I will again give thanks
to my God for his saving intervention (Psalm 42:5 NET).

I am waiting. I will again give thanks.

constantly pray, in everything give thanks. For this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus (I Thessalonians 5:17-18 NET).

Need I say more?

****

 

We’ve nearly covered all of the areas to help make your marriage a Charmed Marriage. Our number Seven should be fun for both of you and not difficult to complete.

Since many areas of the country are in a mandated lockdown, we hope you can adapt these suggestions. We are praying the virus will soon be eradicated but until then, we have to compensate.

7. Continue to date

Often couples quit dating once they’ve said, “I do.” But we recommend you take the time and effort to plan something that can qualify as a date every week. As an empty nester, you may not have the need to get out of the house as during child-rearing years, but it’s important to get out if you are able.

You dated before marriage. Why not afterward? It adds excitement to your relationship if you know something special is coming up. We like to take turns planning our dates. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Explore local restaurants for “happy hour”; the rates are a lot less during this time. You can’t lose!
  • Take a hike. It can take only an hour or two to enjoy the great outdoors.
  • Set a “no TV night” and read quietly together or play a game or put a puzzle together.
  • Plan a romantic evening at home with candles, music, and a special meal—-and pretend you’re staying at a glamorous hotel. Eat at your dining table or in front of the fire at a small table, start out with fresh sheets on the bed; light candles while you get ready for bed. Enjoy each other with soft music and the phone or television off.
  • Go out for coffee and dessert.
  • Take a stroll in the neighborhood and enjoy the sunset together.
  • Attend a local concert. There are many available that feature local artists and aren’t as expensive as big names.
  • Watch a romantic movie.
  • Take a mini vacation; go to Groupon or other websites that offer specials. Sometimes we’ll go to the beach for a couple of nights during the week and enjoy a good price at a hotel with a view.
  • Take the time for romance. Plan ahead and agree this will be “the night” to make love.

We’ve nearly completed the eight areas to focus on, once you’ve said “I do.” All of these areas are important, but I saved what I think is the best. Tune in next week!