Every year, the 4th of July is a time for cookouts, fireworks, and fun with friends and family. In celebrating our country’s independence, we may gather around the barbecue or the pool, sharing quality time with our loved ones, but how often do we stop reflect on the larger ideas of independence and freedom?
Beyond just reflecting on our history, and what the claim of independence meant to the earliest Americans, what about independence and freedom in your own life and marriage?
A major part of our country’s founding values was the freedom to pursue personal happiness – but many of us have obstacles in our own lives that prevent us from realizing this freedom. In most cases, these obstacles are bad habits or unaddressed issues that get in the way of your ability to find day-to-day happiness.
In terms of your marriage, your “freedom” is restricted by anything that’s keeping you from a strong, happy relationship, whether that’s communication problems, trust issues, trouble with finances, household responsibilities – anything that “oppresses” your happiness.
In a similar vein, you can think of problems in your marriage as being restrictive to your independence as well. When you and your spouse are enjoying a happy and healthy relationship, that happiness comes from within – independent from the ups downs you may experience and unaffected by the little hiccups you may experience over the course of the marriage. If every little problem or disagreement causes a crisis, your happiness is NOT independent.
So, with 4th of July and freedom from oppression in mind, this holiday is a wonderful opportunity to find the inspiration to tackle the tough issues that are keeping your marriage from being the best it can be.
Just like the men and women who sought independence more than 200 years ago, it will take some bravery and a good deal of hard work, but you can overcome the obstacles that stand in your way to create a marriage free from bad attitudes, miscommunication, and unnecessary fights.
Just remember that Independence Day is the remembrance of a first step toward a new life and a new country. Let this rich piece of history inspire you to find freedom from arguments and the “old” way of doing things – and transform your marriage into one of happiness, independence, and lasting strength.
Happy 4th of July!
For more advice on how to strengthen your marriage, check out the StrongMarriageNow System today!
[i4w_m_vsl_promo]
Dr. Dana Fillmore and Amy Barnhart, co-Founders, StrongMarriageNow.com
Leave a Reply