My main criteria for the links I share here is that I find them interesting and think you will, too. In today’s link roundup we have some practical relationship and emotional advice; encouragement for those facing the pain of unmet expectations; and an intriguing essay applying Big Picture theories to real life. I’ve also included the link to a post I wrote for Austin Moms Blog. Enjoy!
Some Advice I Give Myself Over and Over, About My Romantic Relationship, by Gretchen Rubin
“Look for ways to be thoughtful: I used to wish that Jamie handed out gold stars more often than he does—and in fact, I still wish he did, but I’ve accepted the fact that he doesn’t. I remind myself that I’m doing thoughtful things for him not because he’ll thank me, but because that’s the way I want to be, that’s the kind of atmosphere I want to live in.”and it took me decades to find it: float.”
How to Raise a Skeptic Without Raising a Cynic, by Kendra Jernejcic (That’s me!)
I now recognize that my job isn’t to prepare the world for him, but to prepare him for the world. And the world I’m preparing him for isn’t always pretty or safe! It’s a world where fake news is rampant, a constant barrage of targeted ads is the norm, and predators lurk around every digital corner.
This Is the Most Common of the Five Love Languages, by Kelsey Borresen
“In relationships, people tend to express love to a partner in the way they’d personally most like to receive it. The trouble is that one person’s primary love language doesn’t always align with that of their partner. So while a back rub after a long day at work might make someone who values physical touch feel like a million bucks, the same gesture may not mean all that much to someone else.”
Real Talk: 8 Words That Can Define Your Infertility Journey, by Shawn Beucler
“Acceptance that EVERYONE HAS A STORY! . . . There is always more to the story. The more I share my story, the more people let me in own their stories. You never know. Be kind to all as we all are dealing with something.”
Kendra Note: Though this article is specifically written about infertility, the concepts apply to anyone who is living with unmet expectations.
If You Don’t Have Community Before a Crisis Strikes, It’s Already too Late, by Jen Oshman
“They had community last night, when they needed it most. Here’s my plea to all singles and couples and families who relocate in this transient age: meet your neighbors, make deep friends, find a church, join a small group, get community.”
“You don’t need all The Things, even the Things that Smart People You Trust say you need. You need just the minimum of what’s good for you that’ll enhance your life, not take it over. You need to listen to the podcasts that’ll make your life better, and that’s it — even if everyone else is talking about that one show you personally have zero interest in.”
What’s the most inspiring, convicting, or thought-provoking thing you’ve read lately? Please drop a link in the comments!