Pope John Paul II, Karol Wojtyla has produced a remarkably eloquent and resourceful defense of Catholic tradition in the sphere of family life and sexual morality. He writes in the conviction that science–biology, psychology, sociology–can provide valuable information on particular aspects of relations among the sexes, but that a full understanding can be obtained only by studying the human person as a whole.
Central to his argument is the contrast between the personalistic and utilitarian views of marriage and sexual relations. The former views marriage as an interpersonal relationship in which the well-being and self-realization of each partner are of overriding importance to the other. It is only within this framework that we can realize the full purpose of marriage. The alternative utilitarian view, according to which a sexual partner is an object for use, holds no possibility of fulfillment and happiness.
Karol was a man of his time and geography. Experiencing his formative years behind the iron curtain confesses his experiential limitations and conformity. Living in a world devoid of personal freedoms and celibate allows an understanding of his mindset. Karol, as a Catholic Priest, can only identify with platonic love, given his vote of chastity. Pope John Paul II clearly understood the responsibility of love because he refrained.
Safety, Faithfulness, Commitment and Reliability are 4 pillars of trust every marriage needs. If any one of these is missing, the roof starts caving in and the relationship starts to deteriorate. Marriages thrive when both partners feel safe and secure.
The Keys to a Successful Marriage
- Communicate clearly and often.
- Tell your spouse that you’re thankful for having him or her in your life.
- Make time for you two as a couple.
- Plan for some personal time without your parter.
- Understand that it’s OK to disagree.
- Build trust.
- Learn to forgive.
- Express gratitude for the experience of learning together.
Couples Mindful Communication
Mindful communication is about slowing down, seeking clarity and listening to understand. Mindful communication is about being aware of our assumptions and our unique perspective. It’s about getting to a mutual understanding, calmly and efficiently.
- Find a quiet space where you can sit opposite one another without being disturbed.
- Start by relaxing and feeling at peace, ready to communicate, speak and listen.
- As one person begins speaking (about anything) mindfully listen. Invite your full attention to the words, tone, and language they use.
- If your mind begins forward planning or jumping to conclusions, preparing to respond say to yourself “I’m listening right now”. And let that thought or assumption go. Continue to listen and maintain your attention on the speaker.
- Consider your response to the speaker and mindfully deliver what you say. Articulate your response, reflecting you understand what the speaker has said.
- Use pauses and relaxed breathing to be mindful of your pace, tone and emotional colouring of your language.
- Take your turn as the speaker and repeat the process.
- Finish by reflecting on the key takeaways of the conversation and notice how you are feeling after having a calm, mindful conversation.
God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, The courage to change the things I can, And the wisdom to know the difference.
WE&P by: EZorrillaMc.
Love and Responsibility – April 20, 1993
AAnonimus