Ask the Expert

Dear CMR: 

Because of some recent circumstances I am stuck at home all day, and while I love my family, I am starting to feel like my boundaries are being pushed—or like I am becoming trapped. What can I do before I go crazy?

Has it been easier or harder to communicate with your significant other during quarantine? Chances are, it's been harder, but the challenge of healthy communication during quarantine is an opportunity to build even deeper relationships. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Willa Williams outlines four easy things you can do to improve your relationship while sheltering at home.

Dear CMR,

What is the best thing to do when your spouse doesn't want to talk about your conflicts or their feelings or thoughts about it. What if they just want to run away and ignore it as if there is no conflict at all?

Signed, Let's Talk About It

Dear CMR,

I have been dating a Christian guy for six months now. He recently told me that he has struggled with porn for 14 years. He is 28 and watches porn a few times a week. He wants me to forgive/extend grace to him while he is working on overcoming his addiction. Is it good or healthy for me to stay in a relationship with someone who is struggling with porn?

Signed, A.

Dear CMR,

My husband and I have separate bank accounts. He knows how much money I make, but I recently earned a raise. I am conflicted about whether or not to mention it to him. I am afraid if I tell him he will think of it as, "Ok, now we can buy something." I think we should save for a rainy day! 

Signed, Conflicted

Dear CMR,

Why do people automatically assign people to zones like the “friend zone”?  Why do we sometimes change the zones we put them in?

Signed, A Podcast Fan

Dear CMR,

Do you think it is possible for two people to stay friends after a romantic relationship has ended between them? If so, what does a healthy friendship look like? 

Signed, B.

Dear CMR,

Suppose two people are dating in which there is a mutual commitment before God for marriage in the future. Is it wrong for a man to treat her with the same love and care that he would his wife while only dating? 

Thanks, 

Timing is Everything