Strategies Four & Five

Good afternoon! This is week four reading "The Four Seasons of Marriage" by Gary Chapman.

I have personally experienced the power of empathetic listening. It can take a very tense interaction and bring two parties to a point of respect. I also find this strategy to be one of the hardest for me. The keys listed in this chapter are a simple reminder of this technique. So are you a "Dead Sea" or a "Babbling Brook"? I am most definitely a "Babbling Brook" and my husband would probably agree, if I let him get a word in. :)

Strategy five, however, is my personal favorite. "You can't help a man uphill without getting closer to the top yourself." (pg 119) Gary Chapman talked about the concept of a "love tank" (pg 96) and I think it carries over here. When I am feeling loved, accepted and encouraged, I am more creative, resilient and therefore more successful. When I speak my husband's love language, take time to listen and encourage him, I help him to succeed, too!

I am very interested in your take on this material. What do you think of Dr Chapman's work? Have you tried any of these strategies? Can you identify one that you want to work on?