Roses & Thorns:

Jon:

• Rose – Going to San Diego and Seaworld
• Thorn – Mold issues and the repair work that had to be done

Angie:

• Rose – Going to San Diego and Seaworld
• Thorn – Mold issues and the repair work that had to be done

Weekly Discussion Topic/Question: Where are the top three places you want to travel to some day?

Jon:  Germany (because I used to live there and want to visit as an adult), the Bahamas (because I want to swim the pigs) and all around the U.S. to visit all of the national parks.

Angie:  Disney World, Italy and Alaska

Devotional/Book Reading: Deciding to Change taken from Gary Chapman’s The One Year Love Language Minute Devotional

Repent, and turn from your sins. Don’t let them destroy you! Put all your rebellion behind you, and find yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. – Ezekiel 18:30 – 31

Synopsis: This reading focused on the meaning behind your words, specifically your apology.  You can apologize all day but it means nothing if actions do not follow those words.  If we apologize to our spouse for something we did that hurt them, we have to be willing to make the changes necessary so we can correct that behavior.

Our takeaway:  Jon and I both agree that this is true.  I expressed that if a person if truly apologetic they will make an effort to change.  Jon added that he believes that people who say words don’t mean anything probably have had an experience with words with no follow-up actions which lead them to feel that way.  We personally have apologized and followed-up those apologies with actions.  Jon has made an effort to not be purposefully annoying (LOL) and I have made an effort to tame my quick temper.

It is important to mean your apology, which means you are willing to make a change so that you do not hurt your spouse again and in the same way.  We suggest that you discuss this topic with your spouse.  Tell each other a time where they apologized and followed-up with action and how that made you feel.

Please share your rose and thorn for the week!  What is your opinion on apologies?  Is there something that works particularly well in your relationship that you would like to share?