The end of a relationship is never easy. Before you serve divorce papers, there’s one big question you need to answer: Can your spouse actually change, or is it time to change your life? As you think about your marriage, it’s essential to focus on the willingness of your partner to put in real effort and communicate before you make your decision. From their openness to counseling to their desire to solve the problems in the relationship, we’re sharing some of the key considerations to remember as you decide whether to save the marriage or get divorced. MARRIAGE COUNSELING Counseling can help save a marriage by fostering improved communication and identifying areas where issues arise, but it requires focus and effort from both partners. If your spouse refuses to go, it’s a sign they are not committed to change, and it’s time to move on. However, if they say yes, pay attention to how actively they participate, whether they continue with sessions, and whether they implement the advice from your therapist to improve the relationship. You want to look for care and commitment to becoming a better spouse daily. Your partner doesn’t have to be perfect or immediately change, but they need to improve and show they are in it for the long haul. THE REAL TEST BEFORE DIVORCE ONE LAST CHANCE OR FINAL STRAW?
COMMUNICATION Communication is the foundation of a relationship and is the first step in evaluating whether a divorce is the right option. Talk to your partner about the issues you want to change and how you feel. Give them time to see if they heard you and take steps to improve. If the conversation results in their making meaningful adjustments, it means they are committed to making it work. If nothing changes, you must decide if you are willing to put up with the problems continuing in your life. Divorce is a life-changing decision you do not need to rush. Take the time to communicate and work with a professional therapist before you decide to stay or step away. Contact Bruce Law Firm if you are ready to make a change. We provide resources to help you as you make this choice at BrucePA.com .
Inspired by CookieAndKate.com
SWEET POTATO BLACK BEAN TACOS
Ingredients •
2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled, cut into 1-inch chunks
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1/4 tsp chili powder
2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained
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3 tbsp olive oil, divided 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/3 cup water 1 tsp lime juice
1/4 tsp fine salt
Salt and pepper, to taste 8–10 small corn tortillas
1 small white onion, finely chopped
2 tsp ground cumin
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 425 F. Toss sweet potatoes in 2 tbsp olive oil, cayenne pepper, and salt. 2. Bake for 30–40 minutes, then set aside. 3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, add remaining olive oil. Add onions and cook until softened. 4. Add in cumin and chili powder, stir for 30 seconds, then add black beans and water. 5. Stir, cover, and reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes before mashing about half the beans. 6. Remove from heat, stir in lime juice, and season with salt and pepper. 7. Warm tortillas in a large skillet over medium heat, then assemble tacos and enjoy!
Christopher recently presented on “Narcissism in Men and Divorce” to the mental PBC Mental Health Counselors Assoc.
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