Observe a strong marriage and you will find two people who effectively communicate. Conversely, a marriage on the rocks more often than not suffers from a lack of or ineffective communication. My own marriage failed initially, but recently we reunited more committed than ever to make this union last for our lifetimes. This class started right at the onset of our remarriage and I believe it was a Godsend to aid us with a plan of action aimed at developing a strong marriage this time around. There are several areas to be covered regarding our relationship that will reveal the strengths and weaknesses we have. After discussing I will share goals to improve and strengthen our relationship.
Mate Selection My wife and I come from very similar backgrounds, yet think very differently when it comes to how we relate to family. My wife comes from a single parent home and has really close ties with her extended family. She, her sister, aunts and female cousins shared a lot of childhood experiences while growing up which formed a close knit long lasting bond with one another. Similarly, I too was raised by a single parent; my mother, who has gone on to be with God. I have two brothers (of which I am the second born) and I keep my inner circle small. Unlike my wife, I relate only to my brothers, my nieces and nephews; I care not for extended family interactions.
Our selection of each other was probably more of a social structural perspective rather than evolutionary. We felt we had a lot in common, and both had the same core beliefs. But we failed to weigh or even consider our differences and how we would deal with them.
Communication Patterns Our communication patterns can use a bit of work and we are set to learn how to be better at it. We tend to debate instead of talk. A lot of times the smallest thing becomes debatable which sometimes escalate to disagreements and