The Aftermath of Hurricane Harvey

September 12, 2017

 “Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer; from the end the earth I call to thee, when my heart is faint. Lead thou me to the rock that is higher than I; for thou
art my refuge.” 

– Psalm 61:1-3

Meditation
During the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and Irma and the devastating flooding and destruction everyone is under increased tension. Tension effects couples. After Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in 2005 divorces increased – “the Katrina divorces.”

Here’s a few quick tips to help with tension personally and in marriages.

  • Personal Prayer – it reduces fear and anxiety and increases empathy and compassion. It also gives us the grace to handle the most difficult situations.
  • Anytime you get especially stressed out, let it be a trigger. Take a deep breathe and send your spouse a text that you love her. When you’re stressed, so something nice for someone else. It will end up comforting you as well!
  • Give compliments: “A compliment a day helps to keep the divorce lawyer away.” Remember, your spouse is working as hard as you are. Thank her for her effort.
  • Do spontaneous acts of kindness – such as flowers, a cup of coffee, chocolates, etc.
  • Tell your wife you love her several times a day and why you love her.
  • Eat dinner together.
  • Start a “memory conversation” where you recall a special moment in your life together as a couple. When you remember, the brain reactivates the positive neurochemicals associated with the original moment.

Live It! Tip of the Week: Be the change your marriage and family needs.  Amidst the storms around us, try to find God’s presence in your spouse and children. Bring them joy in the little things.

Prayer
Incline thy ear, O Lord, and answer me,
for I am poor and needy.
Preserve my life, for I am godly;
save thy servant who trusts in thee.
Thou art my God; be gracious to me, O Lord,
for to thee do I cry all the day.
Gladden the soul of thy servant,
for to thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.
For thou, O Lord, art good and forgiving,
abounding in steadfast love to all who call on thee.
Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer;
hearken to my cry of supplication.
In the day of my trouble I call on thee,
for thou dost answer me.
– Psalm 86