Princesses seem to be a natural part of childhood. For hundreds of years and in multiple cultures, there has been some version of the story of Cinderella. In spite of the twists and turns each may take, they all end the same…Cinderella and Prince Charming live happily ever after.
Unfortunately, life isn’t quite as simple and easy as a fairy tale. Even Christians who marry, struggle from time to time in marriage. And many Christians find themselves in the not so happily ever after of divorce.
Yet study after study shows the importance for kids to have parents who are married, living in the same home together, parenting their kids. Healthy marriages should be a top priority for Christians – especially those with children.
The new book Happily: 8 Commitments of Couples Who Laugh, Love and Last by Kevin A. Thompson attempts to give couples a new mindset about marriage. A mindset that will hopefully lead to stronger, happier marriages.
Each chapter deals with what the author believes is an essential, and often missing, element in marriage. The author doesn’t let the reader get by with doing the minimum either. Many of the commitments are tough for any relationship, but especially in a marriage meant to last for decades.
Within each commitment, Thompson discusses how the lack of that commitment in a marriage causes problems. He is specific and it’s hard to read this book and not see at least a little bit of yourself and your marriage in the problems he lists – even if your marriage is generally great.
But he doesn’t stop there. He paints a picture of how a marriage can be transformed by embracing these commitments. Some like humility and mercy are enough to transform many marriages – especially since they are rarely discussed in marriage seminars, classes or books on the topic.
I have to admit the chapter on mourning was a bit dramatic for my personality. For those who have had hurts in their lives or in their marriage though, I’m sure this chapter will be as helpful as the others.
Honestly, I would tell you to buy the book for the chapters that talk about humility and mercy alone – they are that amazing. Don’t think this is one of the books were you can do a couple of cute, fun things and supposedly transform your marriage into perfection. This book calls readers to do the really tough work of being the Christians and spouses God has called us to be.
For readers who are interested, each chapter has a few questions at the end. These could be used for a group study or private reflection. Perhaps the best use would be for spouses to discuss them with each other.
Bottom line? This book should be one of those classics given to couples who are getting married or who need help in their marriages. It really is that good!
A copy of this book was given to me for free in exchange for my honest review. An affiliate link is included for your convenience.