Dating: 103: Communication is the Key

 

 Have you  seen those couples out to dinner and they sit through the whole meal on their phones? I have! I normally wonder what kind of relationship the couple has since they aren't able to talk just the two of them. I wonder what happened to make them not want to talk with one another.

 

While dating someone it is important to make sure that you make time for that person.... not your cell phone. It is important to have the human interaction when in a relationship. Part of communicating with someone is picking up on the no verbal communication.  When couples are talking they are making more things to talk about or bringing up ideas to make each other think deeper about a topic.  

A lot of times peoples style of communication can be a major issues in a relationship. One major issue for communication is what an equal partnership is in the family unit or even in a relationship. In my own family my dad has said that girls can do anything that a boys can do as far as chores. However, the boys do not seem to have to do what the girls do especially my dad. But in my parents relationship that works. In my own personal relationship we do have gender roles which work for us. However, we do help each other out when we need to. What is important in a relationship is to be equals. In chapter 4 of Successful Marriages and Families: Proclamation Principles and Research Perspective states "stewardship should be understood in terms of their responsibilities-obligations to one's spouse, not power over one's spouse" (pg 40). Granted each families roles might look different in every household.  Not one gender is better than the other.  

 

"Speak, Listen & Love" by Mark Ogletree is talking to married couples about communication. However, I think that you could apply the communication to your own relationship no matter were you are at in that relationship.  Ogletree talks about about "If we can communicate better- meaning more clearly and concisely- then we can forge deeper emotional connections, resolve conflicts, and strengthen the bonds in our martial [ or dating] relationship."  Think about the last argument that you had with someone. Was the argument over poor communication? Communication is something that is important to keep on working on and improving. I really liked how Ogletree talked about emulating the way the Savior communicated. "As you engage in meaningful conversations with your spouse, guide your actions and words by following the example of Jesus Christ. His communication with others radiated love, care, and concern. He spoke gently and loved purely. He showed compassion and granted forgiveness. He listened attentively and demonstrated charity. Likewise, if we want our relationships to improve, we must learn to speak in positive ways that edify and build those around us."

 

Chapter 4