Tag: word

We have all heard and probably recited the nursery rhyme "sticks and stones may break my bones…" You know the rest: "But words can never hurt me."

If only it were true. The fact is that words do hurt. Unlike a bruise or broken bone, we can’t see the wound on the outside. Most of us can recall instances from our own lives when words cut deeply, causing wounds that may still hurt.

Since these wounds are not visible to others, we go through life exhibiting behaviors that come from how we deal with these old hurts. If we try to bury the wound rather than learn from it, we not only prevent healing, but we are likely to inflict pain on others.

While it's always nice to be told "I love you," it's also a wonderful feeling to have your spouse show his or her love through non-verbal gestures that are equally, if not more important. Most of us are used to sending off our husband or wife with a quick peck and "Love you / Love you too," but it's the day-to-day "little courtesies" that we offer that cement our relationship and give our mates reason to love us even more.

Here are a few ideas (that could apply to either spouse) to get your creative juices flowing:

Who wants to be married? Dying sounds more proactive than being married. The word married, whether used as a noun, verb or adjective sounds past tense and settled. Married comes across as boring and evokes no excitement. Dating, on the other hand, is an action word. Dating sounds like things are happening, you sense a future with endless possibilities and dreams around the corner. Married rolls off the tongue with the thud of dirt clods falling on a casket.

It is very easy to take advantage of your mate; we all do it, but when you are in a committed relationship it is important to make an effort to continue to let our spouse know (on a regular basis) that you love them. Sadly, saying "I love you" the same old way eventually loses its meaning or impact.

I know couples who do the same routine every day—dress, shower, pack the briefcase and head out the door—with a "love you" as they give their mate a peck on the cheek. But that gets old and stale. Finding new ways to express that sentiment is key to not only keeping your relationship intact but strengthening your bond in a very deep way.