Now, I Understand
Still struggling with the concept? Hang in there with us!
*Here’s one more example from our experience:
This past summer we vacationed with a number of my family members. We had a fantastic time, but often I ended up with the job of being in charge—finding out what everyone wanted to do, where we’d go, how we would get there, timing, what we needed to bring along, etc. Getting such a diverse group of people “on board” and going the same direction at the same time? That was tough! On our way home, I was describing it all to Craig—when I suddenly realized, and asked, “Is that what your job feels like sometimes?” That was another Bingo!
*Your first attempt wasn’t a Bingo? Don’t give up.
Be patient with yourselves. This technique takes time to hone. Stay focused on sorting through memories to find another example. When you hit on the one, you will know.
*This is one of the main practices that made, and continues to make, Craig and me a team.
Whether you’re volunteering at church, leading a small group, disciplining your kids, or reaching out to your community, are you and your spouse functioning as true teammates? This exercise—practiced not just once, but many times and in differing situations—has the potential make a difference.
*You can relate on a deep level and discover each other again.
Are you and your spouse struggling right now to relate to each other? Do you feel like you’re “married singles,” operating in two different worlds, ships passing in the night? Do you feel like you’ve lost touch with each other in this chaotic, harried technological world?
We encourage you to commit to setting aside the time for this exercise. Maybe this is a nightly dinner game: Each of you describes something that happened that day, and then a “I think you felt this way when….”
*Be encouraged: Continual practice brings improvement.
Convinced you’ll never get the hang of this? Not true! If Craig and I could figure this out and use this technique, anyone can!!