Marriage Retreat
In celebration of my wife and I’s one-year anniversary, we met an inspiring couple from Chicago who were on their 38th anniversary. Sharing dinner and conversation during our vacations, we quickly formed a connection that extended beyond that trip. They later invited us to join them at a BNNA marriage retreat, and without hesitation, we accepted the opportunity.
It turned out to be one of the most enriching experiences of our first year as a married couple. Along with nine other couples, we immersed ourselves in a retreat designed to strengthen and reflect on our marriages, and I even had the privilege of teaching a 45-minute workout session during the retreat. This experience reminded me of three powerful lessons I want to share in this week’s blog.
First, the value of associating with people who share similar values and a desire to improve their marriage cannot be overstated. Surrounding ourselves with couples who were equally committed to growth made us realize that we weren’t alone in navigating the complexities of marriage. We all face challenges, whether it’s communication, managing expectations, or dealing with life’s everyday pressures. But when you connect with people on the same journey, you realize not only the universality of these struggles but also the variety of tools and perspectives available to help you overcome them. It’s comforting to know that the obstacles aren’t unique, and even more comforting to know that there are solutions.
Secondly, discussing your marriage openly in front of others is a powerful tool for growth. At first, it can be uncomfortable. Imagine if everything you said or did in your marriage was witnessed by a group of people – would you still say or do those things? This level of accountability pushes you to reflect deeply on your behavior and words. I know for a fact that some of the things I’ve said in my marriage wouldn’t have been said if they were spoken in front of others. But this vulnerability is where growth happens. Talking openly with other couples gave us perspective, allowing us to both give and receive advice in a supportive environment.
Finally, the retreat has opened the door to lifelong friendships and continued learning. I’m already looking forward to the next retreat, and I fully plan on applying some of the tools we learned as we continue our journey together. More than that, I hope to maintain the friendships we formed with the couples we met. These relationships are more than just fleeting connections – they are anchors in the shared experience of marriage.
Marriage is a journey, and after just one year, I can say it’s been a blessing to share it not only with my wife but also with people who have walked this path for much longer.