I'm reading The Proper Care and Feeding of Husbands by Dr. Laura. I'm almost embarrassed to admit it, but it is a good book. We live in a culture that so undermines men and marriage and the recognition of proper roles. Dare I say that even the church at large does not encourage the Biblical standard?
So on the advice of a trusted sister and friend, I headed to the library and picked up this book.
Chapter One starts with a bang. In short, Dr. Laura encourages wives to be grateful for their husbands: faults, shortcomings, idiosyncrasies and all. She quotes a letter from a listener who challenges wives to make a conscious effort do do the following things:
- Thank God daily for such a terrific guy, mentioning specific qualities for which I'm grateful.
- Look for daily ways to be a blessing to my husband (trying to understand what pleases him, anticipating his needs, etc.).
- Chart my cycle and remind myself on the PMS days that what I'm feeling isn't true and to keep my mouth shut and let it pass.
- Avoid books, magazines, and TV shows that describe what marriage, family and husbands ought to be like, and make a conscious effort to be grateful for things as they are instead of trying to change the people around me.
- Take responsibility for my own emotional well being: Stay rested, don't overcommit and then complain, stay in touch with friends with a positive influence.
- Stay focused on making a home for my family and remember that this is my highest calling and responsibility, and that it has eternal value. The more I do this, the happier and more content I am.
I'm already convicted and I've hardly started chapter two! I think it's a "must read" for 2009. I'll let you know how it goes!