831: UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

“Relationships are harder now because conversations become texting, arguments become phone calls, and feelings become status updates.” —Anonymous

Growth in marriage is never-ending. But there’s something extra special about breaking out of your ruts to focus on you, your spouse, and your marriage. That’s what marriage events offer.

Over the last month, we’ve connected with so many couples in the ONE Family through marriage events. We’ve had the chance to laugh with you, cry with you, celebrate your wins, and share in your struggles. 

These events have been a chance to turn online communication into something up close and personal. 

We’ve witnessed deep vulnerability—and incredible breakthroughs.  

If you’ve never thought about attending marriage events, you’re not alone. It took us probably 11 or 12 years of marriage before attending our first marriage event. We simply didn’t know they existed! 

These days, many marriage events offer a chance to get away from the routines of life, immerse yourself in a positive marriage community, and refocus on your marriage. 

Yes, sometimes it takes time and effort to get to an event. Will we be driving or flying? When is the registration deadline? Who will watch the kids? But in our experience, it has always been worth it.  

Marriage events can bring incredible value to your marriage. It’s a time that is just about the two of you.

If you can hardly find 10 minutes to reconnect with your spouse during everyday life, a marriage event is the perfect time to enjoy undivided time together. You can sleep in, eat whatever and whenever you want, do fun date activities, and so much more. 

Of course, with all the attention and intention focused on your relationship, you’ll likely see areas for growth. For example, you might realize areas where complacency or apathy have had the chance to work their way in.

Without all the distractions, you can look at things with fresh eyes and notice cracks in your 6 Pillars of Intimacy®. And when you break out of the norm, you can focus on one another and get up close and personal. 

Your first step is to commit to attending a marriage event. It’s okay if it’s not happening at your home church or in your town. Find one you think will be a good fit for you and go—whether you drive or fly. 

While you’re there, don’t hold back. Talk to others, participate fully, and engage with your spouse. Choose to be fully present with the teaching, activities, and conversations around you. 

The goal is to walk away from a marriage event feeling more in sync with each other than when you arrived. That’s far easier when you show up and engage. 

Finally, don’t think the growth ends when you leave a marriage event. Exchange numbers with other couples so you can keep in touch. Decide on your next action steps. Commit to doing something new in your marriage. 

Marriage events can change the trajectory of your marriage. But it’s up to you to put in the work to grow, learn, and change. 

Find an event that fits the two of you so you can experience the transformation that you can’t get anywhere else. 

Resources

The 6 Pillars at Sea Marriage Getaway

ONE Extraordinary Marriage Upcoming Events

790: The Greatest Threat to Our Marriage is Apathy

Apply for Marriage Coaching with Alisa

Connect with Us

Join the ONE Family private Facebook group to share your story and connect with other couples who are creating extraordinary marriages. To reach us on the Hug Hotline, call or text 858-876-5663 or email hugs@oneextraordinarymarriage.com.