Us vs. Them

Posted August 9, 2017 by Prairie Wife - 11 comments

Wedding first kissThe Cowboy and I celebrated our 13 year wedding anniversary last month.

We met when I was 19 and were married three years later.

We have 5 children and still thoroughly enjoy each other’s company (most days), so I feel fairly confident that I have some good advice to offer.

But, as I sat here analyzing the last 13 years and trying to figure out how we’ve made it this far, it really came down to one thing.

Once you’re married it’s time for a US vs. Them mentality.

The US is always you and your partner but the “them” changes moment by moment.

The key is to always think of you and your partner as a US.

Does this mean you always put them first?

Nope not at all!

Let me give some examples.

Inevitably all couples hear the question “When are you going to have children?” or “Are you having more children?”

If you think only about what’s good for US and ignore what you hear from “them” I promise you will make the best choice for your marriage.

When (or if) you have children you will be flooded with well-meaning words of wisdom. Only take to heart what works for US, and ignore what worked for “them”. You’ll be able to navigate the ups and downs of parenthood in the way that works best for your family.

The first time your child is hanging on your leg begging you to stay home from date night, simply breathe and know that going out alone is what is best for US and that “them” will be just fine.

A family function is coming up and it’s been months since you took the time to see “them”. You’re exhausted at the thought of packing, driving for hours and all the other work that comes with a road trip. But, your partner is really looking forward to the event and you know it means a lot to them. Time to think about US. While it seems like saying yes to this trip is a yes to “them” it’s really a yes to US. You are sending the message “What is important to you, is important to me.”

The kids are whining and fussing and fighting over everything and both of you are at the end of your ropes. It’s time for an US vs. them meeting. Separate from the noise and form a plan of attack and stick with it…cheering each other on when you see positive results. Soon you’ll see that when you work together, the rest of the family will eventually follow along.

married coupleYou’re tired and exhausted and your partner needs some attention. Pause and think about US…and this is where you need to be honest.

Will you be resentful and bitter for days if you give more to “them” than you currently have to give? Will your US be more damaged in the long run by putting them first? Sometimes the answer to that is YES.

Or, will things be better if you take some time to drop everything and focus on US. Will a few minutes of your time allow you to reconnect and move forward with a stronger and happier marriage?

Sometimes it’s better for US for me to go away by myself. A few hours away from my husband, the kids, and never ending to do lists is necessary for a healthy marriage. Putting “them” aside and doing something that feeds my soul results in a renewed ability to devote energy to US.

The same goes for my husband, and while it’s not always easy to send him off with a smile, I remember he’s not doing it for him, he’s doing it for US.

When you begin asking yourself “Is this good for US or them?” you learn to say no to things that can damage your marriage. 

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published.

11 thoughts on "Us vs. Them"

  1. Jody says:

    Wonderfully said. What clear and concise way of putting into words what it takes to stay together. Although yes, it is easier said than done…..but gets easier altogether when you’ve done it for a while. 35 years for us!

    1. Prairie Wife says:

      Congratulations on 35 years Jody, what a model you are for others! Thanks for taking the time to read and yes…sometimes it’s not easy!

  2. JennB says:

    I agree…

    we just attended a family member’s wedding and at the bridal shower we were asked to write advice. Mine is always to remember that the only person you can control and change is yourself. Every day you have to make a conscious decision to be a good spouse, partner, and parent. You may fail but that mindset prepares you to try harder every day. Remembering to focus on the positive and to keep moving forward.

    1. Prairie Wife says:

      Such a great point and wonderful perspective!

  3. Erica says:

    You two are awesome sauce. Love you both

  4. Christine Fitzgerald says:

    Through the years we have learned to focus on the big picture. If something is small and won’t really matter at the end of the day is it necessary to focus on it? I always try to put our marriage first. If we are not happy, then our whole life and what we have built together will not be strong. But that does not mean everyday is sunshine and smiles. It just means you grow and learn, and work on what is important. We just finished a trip for our 25th anniversary!

    1. Prairie Wife says:

      Love to hear your thoughts! And congratulations on your wonderful blessed marriage!

Categories: Life As It Happens, Prairie Life

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

Subscribe

* indicates required