Pre-marital counseling does vary depending on where you go and what religion you are, but basically, you get together with a Minister, Rabbi, or Priest and discuss your marriage. You know the thing that happens after the party and lasts the rest of your life! Many couples are put off by being required or told they have to do this. I confess my hubby and I felt the same way 12 years ago. We were very busy and didn’t want to be bothered. But, it turned out to be a wonderful experience. So much so, that we teach it now as a couple.
What is important to remember is that the party lasts one day. The marriage lasts the rest of your life. Think of how much time you have put into planning the wedding, choosing the colors, picking out the flowers, etc… How much time have you thought about children, what happens if one of you gets sick, what do you plan on doing about holidays, who is planning on paying the bills, and the ever-popular whose religion will you choose? The thing about pre-marital counseling is that it gets you to think about the hard stuff and not just the fun stuff. When you get married you take a vow, “for better or for worse.” Brides and Grooms aren’t preparing for the “or worse” and it does happen.
Think of this requirement as a date with your beloved where you get to focus on your marriage. And if you are not required to do it, seriously think about going on your own. Even if you leave it thinking “we knew all of that” it should make you feel great about being prepared for the wonderful journey you have ahead of you. And if you leave having found a few areas that are issues for the two of you, you have a chance to work them out before the big day. Just consider it as another part of your planning and remember to have an open mind!
Last changed: Mar 26 2008 at 1:55 PM
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