Why is it so hard to speak nicely to your spouse sometimes?  Is it because we live with them?  Is it because of the history?  Is it because we know how to push each other’s buttons better than anyone else?  I haven’t quite figured it out, but I’ve certainly witnessed it, experienced it, and been guilty of it.  But shouldn’t that be the person we’re nicest to???  Why am I nicer to my friends than I sometimes am to Chad?  It’s not right.

“Oh Janna, you’re not the only one.”  That doesn’t make it acceptable, that makes it an epidemic.

So I’m issuing a challenge.  Do I have the authority to issue a challenge?  I don’t know, but I am.  Follow it or not, it’s up to you, but here it is.  Be nice.  Be nice to your spouse.  I certainly don’t want to alienate any single readers out there, but this is specifically geared to those of you who are married because I think this is essential.  For some reason it is perfectly acceptable to be rude to our spouses.  It’s driving me crazy, friends.  I’m just as guilty here, I’m issuing the challenge to myself as well.  But let’s just be nice for crying out loud!!  Speak to your spouse as you do your friends.  Not about the same things obviously, we have friends for a reason.  But be polite.  Use manners.  Be forgiving and understanding.  Listen.  Show grace and compassion.  Make “being right” less important.  When you get up, ask if you can get him anything.  BE NICE.

Let me know how it’s going, and I’ll do the same.  Let’s keep each other accountable.  There is no more important relationship than this one, and we’re modeling marriage for our children people!  This is important!  I need to show my girls how to treat a husband, and I need to show Eli how he deserves to be treated.  This is a big, big responsibility.  Please take it seriously.  Please take this challenge with me and see where it takes you.