So often, we work with couples who long for the good old days and resent that things have changed. They are unprepared for the challenging times, but keep looking back to when things were so much less complicated. Remember those years back before marriage, when you fell in love, and could not get enough of each other? There is a reason they call it the “honeymoon phase,” and we do not mean to be cynical, but how could you think that it would always be like that? Those years were marked by sexual energy, the newness of getting to know one another, and attraction. “At last I have found the right one.” Life is marked by change and oftentimes the relationship gets battered by life events. The excitement of the newness has worn off and we begin to focus on the not so pleasant parts of our partner, and unfulfilled parts of ourselves. It is important to enjoy those beginning months and years, but what is more important is practicing a generous attitude that keeps perspective and adapts to change. In truth, it goes by very quickly, and holding on to a perspective that finds things to appreciate can offset the grumbling. Life and our relationships are a gift, and living accordingly will make the journey a richer experience.

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