The formal union of a man and a woman by which they become husband and wife is known as marriage. It is a union that is made to last as long as they both shall live. To maintain the bond of marriage, several ingredients as it were, are needed. Communication is one of them. Good communication within marriage is like a stream that flows gently and peacefully through a garden. To keep the stream flowing, marriage mates must cultivate and display insight, love, deep respect and humility.

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Insight: The woman was made to be a complement of the man, not a copy of him. Her role is reflected in the way she communicates. Women like to talk about their feelings, people and relationships. They appreciate warm, intimate communication, for it reassures them that they are loved. On the other hand men are more likely to talk about activities, problems, and solutions. Thus having such insights will help a couple know what to say, when and how to say it. They must speak graciously, politely and in a mild tone - the how; aware that a well chosen word - the what; spoken at the right time - the when; is both appealing and appreciated.

Respect: It is commonly said that respect is reciprocal. In other words, if you want respect, you have to give respect. No matter what difference they may have, marriage mates should not allow such to drive a wedge between them, rather they should treat each other with dignity & respect. If a couple lack respect for each other, this usually becomes evident in their pattern of speech or tone of voice. If they do not address the undergoing problem, their marriage may be headed for tragedy.

Humility: Is the quickest route to resolve a difference with a mate because it moves you to say “I’m sorry”. And it’s been said severally that sometimes, the words “I am sorry” are more important than “I love you”. Saying sorry shows you are not a proud person,
because a proud person makes excuses. Rather than acknowledging a weakness, he points to faults in the other person. When hurt, instead of pursing peace, he takes offense perhaps retaliating with harsh words or cold silence, this can be lethal to marriage. It is much better to discuss matters right away with reconciliation as the goal.
Without a doubt everyone want their marriage to be truly happy and long lasting too, if so, they should have insight - being able to use proper discernment; cultivate true love - by thinking appreciatively about each other; treat your mate with respect, and finally develop humility - an endearing quality.

If you do these things it would make for good communication in your marriage thus strengthening the bond.

summarized by phill eze


original source http://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2013364