Tag Archives: openness

O, What an Outlook on Marriage!

O, what an outlook on marriage! Os turn for the spotlight in the marriage blog as today we look at some helpful Os. Outlook The first one is not surprisingly outlook. If your outlook regarding marriage is negative then it doesn’t augur well for a good start to your marriage. Sadly, some people do have a negative or cynical view of life, love and marriage. This can become quickly very wearing if you live with it day by day.Your outlook on marriage will affect the marriage you end up with. Your outlook needs to be positive, expecting marriage to be … Continue reading →

Allow People to Get to Know You

I know that in my own personal journey as a single parent, I have come a long way. In the early months and years, I was much more protective of my role of a single parent and a bit self-conscious as well. I felt like I had to be perfect—that I had to prove that I was a good parent and my children were well cared for, as if I was always fighting the stigma of the neglectful single parent. What I have learned over the years, however, is that I can be a good model of single parenthood just … Continue reading →

Can They Really Ask You Anything? AND, is That What You Want?

When I talk to parents of young children, many will share that they want a relationship with their children where the kids can “ask them anything.” Talk to parents of teenagers, however, and they might just as likely say something like “there are things I just don’t want to know.” Building and maintaining an open line of communication with our child takes commitment and an openness to dealing with whatever comes, no matter how uncomfortable it might be. If we want our children to feel free to talk to us about anything, then we need to figure out how to … Continue reading →

Stay Open to New Insight

I think I know my children pretty darn well. As a matter of fact, I do not think it is bragging to confess that sometimes I know what they are doing (and why) before they do. But, the truth is, I certainly do not know it all and by remaining open to new information and new insight, I can adjust as my children grow and change. There is something to be said for personality, but none of us stays the same. Part of me would love it if my children would stay put for a while—especially after I work so … Continue reading →