John and I had the pleasure of joining a dozen other people to explore a program called Couples Coaching Couples. It was marvelous to be in a circle of men and women who consider their relationship to be alive. Something to be protected, and given weight. A member of the team that is Us. 

 

We were invited to express what our spouse means to us. I picked the word stability. After all the memory had not yet faded about his part in helping our daughters get the key out of the locked car. The piles of paperwork beside his computer attest to the effort to find services for Benjamin. Last weekend when I spearheaded a Parents' Night out for fifty kids he set up the movie, and helped keep toddlers safe. When the twins and I held the strings for marionettes on Easter he read the script, played the guitar, and collected flowers from little girls in poofy dresses and boys in bowties. 

 

One man at the CCC meeting described how he first joined many years ago. It was fueled by the desire to strengthen his own marriage. But somewhere along the way his sentiments evolved to an intention to support others. 

 

"You come for yourself and stay for others."

 

How magical.

 

There is a chapter forming in my area, and any couples who choose to be involved will be blessed. They may find themselves showing up in order to fortify their own relationships. Then perhaps a few years later, when they are stronger, will find another reason to stay.