The foundation to a lasting marriage includes trust. On the wedding day, a couple make vows that are based on trust, with each partner being assured that the other will always be faithful, loyal and honest. It is therefore not surprising, that when that trust is disturbed in a marriage, it is very difficult to repair and rebuild it. In a number of marriages, a breach of trust will almost certainly lead to a divorce; but this need not be the case. Here are some tips on repairing the trust in your marriage.
Confession is good for the soul
The road to repairing trust in a marriage begins with a full confession of the wrong that has been done by one or both partners in a marriage. This is an opportunity to put it all on the table. Deciding to tell some of the “truth” and hiding the rest can only lead to more distrust and will significantly jeopardize any attempts to repair the marriage. While this process of professing it all can be hard, it is necessary.
Seek and receive forgiveness
Forgiveness can be hard to give to a partner who has breached the trust in a marriage, but there can be no progress if there is no forgiveness. Forgiveness means that the party at wrong has approach the other in remorse seeking to have his or her slate cleaned and the party who was wronged begins the healing process by giving the other that gift of starting afresh. There can be no real repair of trust if the forgiveness is only lip service. A person who is forgiven must not be reminded daily of his or her actions that was “forgiven”.
Change behavior
When repairing trust in a marriage, the partner at wrong must display behavior that is keeping with someone who is regretful of his or her actions and is willing to make a change. Even where no ill intentions are being pursued, all actions must be evaluated for its authenticity and transparency. A change of behavior must reassure the other partner, that there is no need to worry about a breach in trust again.
Consider marriage counseling
Marriage counseling by a trained professional in handling and managing couples through marital issues is a great option to pursue when repairing the trust in your marriage. A breach of trust will naturally leave one or both partners not believing in anything that is being said or done by the other in the quest to repair the marriage. In marriage counseling, a marriage counselor will be able to guide the couple in exercises and useful techniques that will significantly help with repairing the trust. While some couples might have reservations about marriage counseling, it is a valuable outside tool that can repair the trust.
Renew your vows
There is no better way to display a commitment to each other and a reestablishing of the trust by renewing your vows. This ceremony represents a new beginning and also rekindles that first love feeling.
If you would like to speak with a marriage counselor, contact Hidden Stream Counseling call 919-307-3805.
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