You can tell a lot about the state of a couple's relationship from the way they greet one another. You can see it in their expression and countenance, as well as how they speak to each other. It is even more obvious by their physical contact. But how much importance should you give a greeting.
How do you greet your friends, coworkers, and neighbors? How about acquaintances and those you meet in public? You may even encounter someone you don't necessarily like yet still acknowledge them out of courtesy. So if you're this nice and polite to other people, doesn't your spouse deserve the same? Times ten?
It's probably something you don't think about very often---the first thing you say to him or her when you wake up in the morning, the look on your face when you get in the car, the energy in your voice when you speak on the phone. But here's something else you probably don't stop to consider--the difference it would make in your spouse's day if everything about you expressed the fact that you were really, really glad to see them.
When someone communicates that they are glad to see you, your personal sense of self-worth increases. You feel more important and valued. That's because a good greeting sets the stage for positive and healthy interaction. Like love, it puts wind in your sail.
Think of the opportunities you have to greet each other on a regular basis. When coming through the door. When meeting for lunch. When saying good-night. When talking on the phone. It doesn't have to be bold and dramatic every time. But adding warmth and enthusiasm gives you the chance to tough your mate's heart in subtle, unspoken ways.
Remember, love is a choice. So choose to change your greeting. Choose to love.
For I have come to have much joy and comfort in your love. (Philemon 7)
Today's Dare
Think of a specific way you'd like to greet your spouse today. Do it with a smile and enthusiasm. Then determine to change your greeting to reflect your love for them.
*** Loved burning the list. Of course, I read it again first, prayed for the strength to see past these minor attributes, and BURNED. It made me laugh too, reading the part in the book about being jealous about the husband playing golf. Exactly us yesterday. I was home packing and he was out playing golf. He came home and told he how well he did...he had the biggest smile on his face...and I just started laughing so hard. It makes me much happier seeing that big smile than to be upset that he wasn't home helping me. Point well taken!
No comments:
Post a Comment