Linda and Charlie Bloom have been married for 31 years. They are psychotherapists and have more than 55 years of combined experience in relationship counseling. In 1987, this couple founded the Empowerment Network, an organization offering seminars to individuals and couples on improving relationships. They currently offer 50 different workshops.
This paperback is filled with many wise words on sustaining love in marriage. Given that the current divorce rate is 60 percent, couples need all the help they can get to stay together through all the differences, conflicts, and obstacles to marital love. The catchy title describes the content of the book: lessons followed by commentary by Linda and Charlie Bloom or illustrative material from other couples' experiences.
"When two hearts are connected, the biggest problems become workable; when they are not, the smallest difficulties seem insurmountable." This is so true, and the unity that husband and wife feel can work through disappointments and differences. "One of the greatest questions you can ask your partner is 'How may I best love you?' " Keeping the channels of communication open is crucial to the ability to ask good questions and to share feelings. "One person, no matter how much they love you, cannot meet all of your emotional needs." This is one that all couples should be aware of early in their romantic relationship. Too many individuals depend on their partner to make them happy. This burden is impossible to carry because, in the end, we are all responsible for our own happiness.
Closely linked to that statement is this one: "One of the greatest gifts you can give your partner is your own happiness." Try to practice this one every day, and it will go a long way toward strengthening and deepening your relationship. "Your partner is your teacher and your student" is a one to keep in mind each week as you work through the pressures of modern-day living. And finally, here's a really good one: "There is no greater eloquence than the silence of real listening." The Blooms are fine guides to making love last in marraige.
