Follow up: Keys to Fulfilling Relationships

It was a great day learning about relationships while at the same time fellowshipping with friends. And lunch was lovely too!

It was interesting to hear about how self-esteem plays an important part in our relationships. This isn't something I personally think about much, probably due to how the world portrays it. But the speaker made it clear for us that this wasn't the same kind of self-esteem. We do need to realise our intrinsic worth, in addition to admitting our fallen nature. And we should value our differences, rather than trying to change other people to be like ourselves.

Some other principles from the talk were:

• In relationships, we should be on different boat, but still heading in the same direction. What this means is that for married couples, each individual should remain themselves, while at the same time working towards joint goals with our partners.
• As individuals, we should be able to handle our own problems, rather than relying on our spouse all the time.
• When we argue as a couple, we should remember that we are working towards the same goals.
• Don't keep digging up the past in arguments! Always focus on the present.
• When you have a problem, take turns talking and listening. Don't try to fix the problem then and there, but try to listen and understand each other properly.
• Be authentic about who you truly are. There's no point trying to be someone you're not. If people don't know the real you, they can't love the real you!