February 2006

I spend my days with people who are not happy in their marriage. Perhaps this is why it is so refreshing when I find a couple thrilled to be together. We all need role models. Some of us never had a role model; perhaps there was no happy marriage to see growing up.

Well, this morning, I was tuned into NPR‘s Morning Edition. I always look forward to their report on Story Corps. If you are not familiar, this is a program that started in New York City. People could enter into a soundproof room, and either tell their story or interview someone else to hear their story. These stories are an oral history, and are being collected by the Library of Congress.

One couple that entered that booth has become the “poster children” for the program. Danny and Annie Perasa are that couple. They embody the program’s storytelling, but also embody a loving relationship. If you did not catch the story, treat yourself by reading and listening by clicking here.

Danny is dying from cancer, but their love is clearly undying.

There are two issues that seem to be a problem for many couples: emotional health and financial health. These two items tend to account for many of the problems that lead couples to relational problems.

Often, depression is the quiet destroyer of relationships. When one spouse is depressed, it can cause problems for the relationship, both because of the lack of energy and the prevalence of negativity. This begins to breed negativity both ways. To help, we have created a resource website. The new website is http://www.beatdepressionnow.com. We will be continually adding articles, resources, and even a forum in the days ahead!

And the number one cause of divorce? Financial problems. Many people find themselves in a financial bind, and seek a solution. A popular solution these days has been the debt consolidation. Unfortunately, it is not a cure-all, and before people jump into that process, they need to decide on whether it is beneficial to them. But most websites are selling a debt consolidation. So, we created a website that will provide information. We are not a bank, mortgage firm, or financial institution, so we try to provide useful information, articles, and resources for you to explore if this may be a good option. You can find this site at http://www.your-debt-consolidation.net.

Let us know what you think, or other resources you would like to see.