Article November 29, 2010 Issue

To see each other with fresh eyes

It may look like the other person needs to change, but an inspired spiritual perspective puts the relationship—and your spouse—into clear view.

BY MICHELE NEWPORT

MY HUSBAND AND I have been married for over 35 years, and anyone who is married can tell you that there are bound to be highs and lows during those years. When Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, was asked what she thought of marriage, she answered in part, "That it is often convenient, sometimes pleasant, and occasionally a love affair" (Miscellaneous Writings 1883-1896, p. 52). How true that is.

My husband and I had been married only a couple of years when I began to be filled with resentment at what I thought was his lack of consideration for me. It seemed that he was continually ignoring my needs and putting his needs first, and as a consequence I constantly felt slighted and under-appreciated.

One day, in a moment of desperation, I phoned a Christian Science practitioner for help—someone I had never talked with before. When she answered, I completely broke down, sobbing uncontrollably. Of course she had no idea who was on the other end of the line, but she began to speak so gently to me about God's love that in a few moments I was able to gain control of myself. Then I explained to her why I was calling. I don't remember exactly what I said, but I'm sure it was to tell her how selfish and inconsiderate my husband was. She agreed to pray for me, and I walked away from the phone feeling a bit better.

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Article

Beyond fairy tale romance