Linda Lewis Griffith

We teach our children algebra, literature and chemistry. Yet we offer no instruction in a topic that has far greater implications on the ultimate success of youngsters’ lives: picking the right marital partner.

We all experience unpleasant moments in our relationships. A husband may go car shopping with his friends and come home an hour later than planned, forcing an embarrassing change in the couple’s dinner reservations. Or a girlfriend adopts a new puppy even though her boyfriend would prefer no more pets.

At a ecent multi-generational gathering, we began talking about ways that we waste time. We unanimously agreed that cell phones, social media and the Internet were responsible for countless misspent hours.

We all know about grumpy old men. They’re the irascible geezers who complain about their food, snap at their wives and are perpetually unhappy about everything.

Half of all marriages end in divorce. That means millions of children are impacted by their parents’ breakup. Divorce is always stressful for kids; but some folks make matters worse with their bad behavior following the split.

Emotional stressors come in all shapes and sizes. A boyfriend unceremoniously dumps us. Our employer goes out of business unexpectedly and we’re left scrambling to pay the rent. A dear friend has told us she has only a few months to live.

Your dear spouse passed away this year. This is your first Christmas alone in many years. You’ve done OK getting through the season so far. Now you’re wondering how you’ll survive these final, memory intensive days.

“It’s the most unstable time of the year.”

Your spouse has just received a crushing diagnosis. Your lives together will never be the same.

Every oral communication has two components. The first one is the words. They are concrete and easily understood. They could be quoted again and again and elicit the same response.