Get the appHealthy Conflict in MarriageSample
IS YOUR REFLECTION IN THE MIRROR?
The folklore surrounding vampires has been a part of popular culture for over a century. But would it surprise you to know a key element of that legendary story shows up in many marriages?
One of the most well-known characters in classic literature is Dracula, the ghoulish vampire created by Bram Stoker in 1897. Since then, thanks to imagery portrayed in everything from movies to cartoons, vampires have become synonymous with black capes and sharp teeth. But there’s another characteristic often featured in these dark tales: a vampire’s reflection is never seen in the mirror.
On the surface, it might not seem like this obscure quality would have any practical application to our relationships. But let me ask you: on an emotional level, do you see your reflection in the mirror? For many couples, conflict is difficult to resolve because one spouse refuses to see him- or herself as part of the problem. They don’t recognize when they have a bad attitude or when they speak harshly toward others. Even when someone points out these traits, the spouse denies that it’s true.
What about you? Is it hard for you to consider the part you play in problems facing your relationship? If so, you may have trouble seeing a true reflection of yourself. Let me encourage you to work through this issue with a counselor, pastor, or a trusted friend. Marriage problems are created by both partners, but, with God’s help, so are the solutions.
For a daily dose of encouragement and perspective, check out Jim Daly’s blog, Daly Focus, at JimDalyBlog.com.
The folklore surrounding vampires has been a part of popular culture for over a century. But would it surprise you to know a key element of that legendary story shows up in many marriages?
One of the most well-known characters in classic literature is Dracula, the ghoulish vampire created by Bram Stoker in 1897. Since then, thanks to imagery portrayed in everything from movies to cartoons, vampires have become synonymous with black capes and sharp teeth. But there’s another characteristic often featured in these dark tales: a vampire’s reflection is never seen in the mirror.
On the surface, it might not seem like this obscure quality would have any practical application to our relationships. But let me ask you: on an emotional level, do you see your reflection in the mirror? For many couples, conflict is difficult to resolve because one spouse refuses to see him- or herself as part of the problem. They don’t recognize when they have a bad attitude or when they speak harshly toward others. Even when someone points out these traits, the spouse denies that it’s true.
What about you? Is it hard for you to consider the part you play in problems facing your relationship? If so, you may have trouble seeing a true reflection of yourself. Let me encourage you to work through this issue with a counselor, pastor, or a trusted friend. Marriage problems are created by both partners, but, with God’s help, so are the solutions.
For a daily dose of encouragement and perspective, check out Jim Daly’s blog, Daly Focus, at JimDalyBlog.com.
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About this Plan
It’s not a matter of if you and your spouse will disagree – it’s a matter of when. So how you handle conflict is important. Approach your differences with the right perspective, and not only will you resolve problems more easily, you’ll do it with greater love and grace. It’ll take some guidance from God’s Word and a little hard work, but disputes can become opportunities to build connection and intimacy, rather than tear them down.
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We would like to thank Jim Daly and Focus on the Family for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: www.FocusontheFamily.com
