Life always presents us an opportunity to practice our survival skills. I love the phrase to be aware is to be alive. For me, it means being observant of people, things and situations that challenge our safety or success. Once we feel threatened, our instinct kicks in and we do whatever is necessary to protect ourselves. We do the same where our hearts are concerned.
Our relationships sometimes present difficulties that cause us to put up our defenses. Most individuals put on the boxing gloves when we feel backed into a corner. In those moments, we ignore what’s really happening around us and get caught up in our feelings. Focusing too much on ourselves will cause issues in other parts of our relationship. So being aware goes beyond our own safety to that of our marriage. We also have to keep our antennas up when we see attitudes and behaviors that threaten our marriage. Not only should we be aware, we must also take immediate action.
While disrespect, negative attitudes and energy should all be monitored, there is one particular component we take for granted. Date nights seem like a simple idea, yet so many of us married folk don’t have it at the top of our list.
Not being able to recall the last date you went on as a married couple is a problem.
If we are making excuses as to why we can’t spend quality time with our spouse, the marriage isn’t a priority at that moment. I know, I know… finances, children and no babysitter. I’ve been there, but who says a date night has to mean leaving home and spending money? Children do eventually go to sleep and I’m sure your home or apartment has a space where you can be alone and enjoy each other’s company. People always make time for what is most important to them.
Dating ,when we were single, was fun and all about getting to know the other person because there was a genuine interest and excitement. Think about how creative we were with the planning of the dates. We wanted to have those conversations and ask questions. Remember how the time together never seemed to be enough? We now take those moments for granted and aren’t valuing them anymore. Just because we’ve gotten to know each other doesn’t mean there isn’t more to learn.
There are benefits that come from date nights that are significant to a healthy marriage.
- Communication has to happen.
- Couples have an opportunity to share as well as listen to the happenings of each other’s world.
- Intimacy happens during date nights. Physical interaction like kissing, and holding hands is necessary in marriage.
- It eases tensions
- and it’s an awesome reminder of the natural affection that should be evident in a relationship.
Back to the Basics
With so many couples suffering today it’s important that we go back to the basics. The beginning of our relationships always started with dating. Why wouldn’t we think it was still as important in our marriage today? It’s time to use our survival skills to protect our marriage. Realizing the benefits of date nights is essential.
BMWK, how often do you and your spouse enjoy date nights?