*The power of Acceptance in a Marriage* *A path to lasting love* *Garments for Each Other ©* *Post #2* Acceptance cannot be demanded; it must be given freely. Ask yourself: Am I truly accepting my spouse for who they are? Or am I constantly wishing they would change? If the answer leans toward the latter, it’s time for reflection. 1. Stop Challenging—Start Listening When your spouse expresses an opinion or belief, do you immediately challenge them? "Seriously!! How dumb is that? All your ideas don't make sense! " Instead of rushing to correct them, have a conversation. Listen with the intent to understand, not to respond. Trust is built when we validate each other’s thoughts, even if we don’t always agree. 2. Praise Instead of Criticize "The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family." (Ibn Majah) How often do we praise our spouse’s strengths? It’s easy to notice what they do wrong, but do we acknowledge what they do right? Shift your focus from their flaws to their virtues, and make it a habit to appreciate them—both privately and in front of others. 3. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff At the end of the day, does it really matter if the shoes are left in the lounge?or if the toothpaste lid is left open? Yes it does, but is it enough to compromise your peace? Instead of dwelling on the minor irritations, think of all the kindnesses your spouse has shown you. *A moment of patience in frustration can prevent hours of regret.* Marriage Is a Choice—So Is Acceptance Marriage is not a fairytale; it is a commitment that requires effort, patience, and, above all, acceptance. The next time you find yourself irritated by a habit or a flaw, ask yourself: Is this worth my peace? Acceptance doesn’t mean there won’t be challenges—it means choosing to navigate them with love, understanding, and trust. When we learn to accept, we build confidence in our relationship, allowing us to weather any storm together. May Allah bless our marriages with tranquility, love, and endless growth. Ameen.