Respect is a big-tent word, especially when it comes to marriage.
Under that canvas are other words like patience, honesty, listening, and civility.
Most of us show respect to our children, neighbors and friends, and supervisors and employees, but our partners sometimes find this due regard missing in action. Not good. As most couples whose marriages have survived decades of storms and trials often advise, respect is a vital ingredient for a successful marriage.
Marriage manuals old and new, online sites about successful marriages, and pastors and counselors all stress the importance of treating a spouse with dignity and consideration. A husband should ask, for example, about his wife’s day at work and really listen to her answer. A wife should do the same. When one of them makes a mistake—whether it’s forgetting to post an important letter or picking up parmesan cheese at the grocery store—rather than responding negatively or blowing up, a good spouse learns to shrug off these peccadillos and move on. It’s all about respect….