Blenders, toasters, china, towels are all typical gifts for newlyweds. Problem is none of these handy gifts do much to hold a relationship together.  Pre-marital counseling just might be the most valuable but seldom given wedding present a couple could get.

Divorce has become commonplace in our culture, a sad fact of modern day life.  And though the social stigma once attached to it has all but gone away it is still a painful process to go through, and even more so when it involves children.

Presumably, most couples don’t go in to the marriage planning for divorce.  But failure to plan for a good marriage is a certain plan for failure.

How do couples learn how to be married?

Pre-marital counseling is an excellent way to get prepared for marriage.  Though it will not prevent a couple from going through hard times it will certainly lessen the heartaches and provide a real chance for a successful marriage.  How many couples in trouble have started a sentence with “If only we had known…?”

Young couples may believe that love will be enough to build a lasting relationship until reality comes crashing in.  While romance is an important part of any good marriage it doesn’t make a good foundation.  Good pre-marital counseling will help provide a couple with the skills and understanding necessary to get through the difficult times.

Think about it, before a new driver can get a license they have to take a written test as well as a road test.  They’ve probably also spent a period of time driving with another licensed driver who can coach them.  Perhaps this would be a good idea for couples seeking a wedding license?

In some religious traditions it is a requirement that couples go through some sort of pre-marital counseling or training before they can be married.  This may seem overbearing to some but it might just help two well-intentioned lovers avoid a devastating divorce.

People spend a lot of money to insure a memorable wedding.  Thousands of dollars are spent on invitations, food, clothes, and decorations.  Even more is spent on a photographer and videographer. Often there is an expensive honeymoon trip.  Rarely does anyone make a similar investment in preparing for the actual marriage.

For less than what many brides and grooms spend on cakes for the reception they could lay a solid groundwork for a long lasting and satisfying relationship.  Unfortunately, too many marriages don’t last as long as the wedding cake in the freezer.

So when your next friend announces they are engaged don’t race out to get them a can opener or clock for the mantle.  Invest in their relationship.  Get them a session or two with a local marriage counselor.  Then if you’ve got more cash than you know what to do with, get ‘em a good mattress - the second best wedding gift.

If you're about to get married and are seeking pre-marital counseling, or are already married and are interested in marriage counseling, look to Lotus Group for Indianapolis Marriage Counseling and Family Therapy . Lotus Group provides a spectrum of services dedicated to providing you with the tools to florish in any relationship. When you're ready, 317.595.5555