Marriage: some things I've learned

Let him love you.

Let him touch you. 

Let him look at you.

Let him accept you.

Let him speak truth to you.

(Why are those 5 so difficult?)

Spend time with him.

Make time together.

Apologize for your part.

Respect him.

Respect yourself.

Honor your feelings by sharing them.

Honor his feelings by listening without being defensive.

Accept who you are and who he is right now.

Accept that you will change and he will too. 

Put yourself in his shoes. 

Share your perspective.  But remember it's just that, a perspective. 

Give him the benefit of the doubt.

Challenge him and allow him to challenge you without being defensive.

(I see a recurring theme here.)

Pray together.

Pray for him.

Pray for yourself first.

Make time for yourself.

Spend time with solid friends who speak truth into your life.

Give him space (and no guilt) for friends and guy things that you just don't understand.

Support, promote, and encourage his dreams.

Hold tight to your dreams.

Dream together.

Be creative together.

Be realistic.

Be his biggest fan.

Speak highly of him in public (and private).  Brag on him in front of others.

Kiss him in front of your kids.

Remember that you are different from others, and live your life instead of theirs.

Honor your relationship daily.

Show up.  Every day.

Be passionate.

Be adventurous.  (Men love adventure.)

Be present in what he tells you.

Celebrate with him.

Celebrate him.