DEALING WITH THE ANGER

Milton, here:

I would like to tell you that Kristy and I have never had a disagreement or major argument. I know that for some this admission is sooo disappointing.

Ha!

But, the truth is that its impossible for two people with two mindsets and two opinions not to have differences and disagreements. It is implausible to think you are going just merrily skip through the tulips and never argue or fight.

But you can learn the art of working through life's issues.

Here is more truth to swallow.

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Eight truths of lasting marriages

by Kristy and Milton Dykes

6. Couples must learn the art of a fair fight.

In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry” (Ephesians 4:26)

1. Focus on the issue at hand. 2. Allow all sides of the issue to be discussed. 3. Refuse to label, name-call, or make blanket statements. 4. Have a heart to forgive and to ask for forgiveness. 5. Turn your attention to the good, and clean up the mess.

7. Loving laughter strengthens your marriage.

“A merry heart does good, like medicine” (Proverbs 17:22 NKJV)

There are psychological and physiological benefits of joy and laughter. Laughing 100 times a day is equivalent to 10 minutes of exercise on a rowing machine, yet the average 4-year old laughs 400 times and day while the average adult laughs only 15 times a day. Laughter is the shortest distance between two people, so laugh with your mate. It will bring a bonding to your relationship like nothing else. Learn to increase your humor quotient by seeing the humorous side to life.

Not long after we got a new Mercury Marquis, we went to the body shop to check on our other car that was being repainted. As Milton backed the car up, he hit a low post, and we heard a sickening crunch. “Praise the Lord,” Kristy exclaimed. “And just why are you praising the Lord?” Milton dead-panned. She said, “I’m praising the Lord you’re driving and not me!”