We tend to think that if we hold back from expressing our thoughts or emotions, that no one will notice we are upset. Dr. Tim Muehlhoff explains a communication principle today that might have you re-think that idea! People around you may be able to pick up what you are feeling, whether you want them to or not!

Our culture does not show how to handle disagreements well. Have you noticed? We are continually told that everyone can have their own perspective, but if you tell someone that you are right and they are wrong, that is close-minded or hurtful. We need to learn how to express our opinions and respect the opinions of others in a humble way that will encourage conversation rather than be divisive. 

Sometimes, when interacting with other people we can default to showing the things about us that we believe will make us most interesting to them. However, in order to connect with others and give them a sense of being understood and listened to, we can change our approach from being trying to be interesting to being interested. Just how is that done? What will that do for the people we spend time with?

In marriage, like a lot of other areas in life, there are things that we have to face that are not easy to do or obvious to figure out. Today, Willa Williams answers a very interesting question from one of our followers: How do you handle marriage when your husband is disabled and not able to work, but wants to provide? Read her thoughts below and see if you can think of other solutions to this issue!

Boundaries are important to establish in any kind of family relationship.  Blended families have their unique struggles and managing these struggles often requires a little finesse. However, just like in all relationships, blended families thrive on healthy communication patterns. Dr. Veola Vasquez shares some insight on how to engage these difficult conversations and grow closer as a result!

Here at the Center, we often get questions about how to practically help encourage young married couples as they get started on their journey. What things can be done that will help them grow together, in good times and bad? What are they going to need the most help in? Dr. Chris Grace offers some very practical, simple ways to communicate your support and encouragement to newly married couples. Try some of them out and let us know how the couple responds!

Friends are those people that we do everyday life with. We live or work near each other, we do ministry together, we frequently connect online, or we work out in the same gym. This proximity helps us grow and sustain the relationship, and such “mere presence” leads to increased liking.  And this often leads to growing feelings of closeness or intimacy. Is there a point that becomes too close? Should those relationships be set aside completely? Dr. Chris Grace explains some of his thoughts and insight on how these friendships influence a marriage relationship!