Treat Your Spouse Like A Stranger

Photo Credit: JBYLER Photography renamed Imagery Elixir

It is an unfortunate fact that we often treat complete strangers with more politeness and respect than our spouse.  As we become comfortable in the relationship, we tend to overlook the basic rules of etiquette.  We speak to them harshly and let out our frustrations on them.  We stop truly listening when they speak to us.  We slowly begin to take them granted and assume will understand and forgive our unpleasant behavior.  However, this often leaves our loved one feeling insignificant and wondering why we save our best conduct for others.

Strangers and acquaintances truly receive our best treatment.  We say “thank you” and “please” when we interact with them.  We take great care not to offend them.  We generally do not snap at them for small mistakes or criticize their shortcomings.  What if we were as careful in our interactions with the ones we love?   There was probably a time when most of us treated our significant other with such politeness.  When we began perusing the relationship we were on our best behavior.  We were mannerly, kind, and respectful.  As relationships continues, we often feel safe and assume it is acceptable to behave in ways that are unattractive or downright rude.

Perhaps it is time we begin treating the one we love like a stranger again.   

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