Barbie Ducksworth

When relationships stall personal growth

A meaningful relationship is one of the most satisfying experiences a person can hope to have on this earth. However, one cannot describe a relationship as meaningful if one does not mature over time as a result...

When friendships expire

On the journey of life, you will encounter many people, developing relationships where connections are made and commonalities become unearthed through frequent encounters. Nevertheless, what happens when those connections and commonalities that sealed your friendship status fail to matter to...

Valentine's day (romance in)

Valentine's Day, the day of love, will be arriving soon. Are you hoping for the usual-- roses, candy, dinner, and maybe a movie (LADIES)? Indeed, gestures of love expressed through the gift of roses...

Valentine's day (romance out)

As Valentine's Day approaches, some people are having onging thoughts in the pursuit of finalizing Valentine's Day plans. "Heart Day" falls on a weekend and thus the high probability of increased...

Avoiding offenses in relationships

Offenses tests relationships and challenge the foundations on which even strong relationships are built. In any relationship--a marriage, a friendship, and other interpersonal relationships--deciding not to take offense, even when the other person intentionally meant to offend you...

Super bowl sunday for couples

The most recent articles addressed the topic of quality time in marriage. On this Sunday, people across the country will congregate in homes and public establishments to watch the battle for the NFL's most sought after...

Marriage and quality time (part 2)

In marriage, quality time is the propeller that can help navigate smooth sailing for a couple, even amid the difficult storms that couples encounter. Indeed, February is that special month when a woman...

Marriage and quality time (part 1)

Quality time is a familiar phrase that is often tossed around in relationships. It is indeed important to spend quality time with your spouse. But what so many couples need to embrace is that quality time can indeed happen more...

Marriage and expectations (part 2)

Expectations are like lenses. In a marriage, when a spouse knows the expectations of the other, roles and expected behavior become transparent. According to Ron Mumbower, a local church-based family counselor, "Expectations are an incredible way to...

Marriage and expectations

When a couple becomes one, it is not uncommon for expectations to exist. In fact, expectations are expected. Ron Mumbower, a local church-based family counselor, believes there is nothing wrong with couples having expectations. However, oftentimes...

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