Chapter Five: Content in Relationships

This week we are reading and contemplating Chapter 5 in our study Content in our relationships, which then prompts a few questions which actually have been asked by the author as she opens this section. Have you been hurt in the past year by someone that you care deeply about? And on the other hand, have you hurt someone, either intentionally or unintentionally in the past year? (Now, if I were asking the question myself, I would have said in the past week!) I agree completely with Linda Dillow's comment that nothing is as wonderful as the love of a spouse, a child, a parent, or a friend. Conversely, nothing hurts as much as being betrayed by one of those same persons.

What do you do when this happens? How do you remain content in your relationships when you only have control over your half of the relationship? Is it even possible?

As you read this chapter, you will see women who are dealing with relationship problems in every arena: family, friends, coworkers. You will read about forgiveness, and the herculean efforts that have been made to forgive by those who have been treated unjustly, even in Nazi concentration camps. And you will be challenged to look at your own life and your relationships with all those with whom you come into contact, especially those closest to you, and evaluate your attitudes toward them.

I'll be 'anxious' (just can't help myself...I have to say that tongue in cheek) to hear how this has challenged and helped you in regard to those things which cause you to struggle personally in relationships. Remember that any of the mentor moms, including me, are available to counsel with you or just listen if you need someone to bounce your ideas off of, or a shoulder to cry on. We have been there, and actually still are there! Praying that this chapter helps you to forgive and empowers you to move on from where you may be stuck in the muck of messy issues with those you love. Blessings, Mary

P.S. I didn't review Chapter 4, as I would prefer to stick to the calendar schedule for the blog posts, and want to review at the beginning of the week, rather than at the end. If anyone would like a review of Chapter 4, let me know and I'll be happy to do so.