March is like the relationship danger zone, with divorce filings and separations skyrocketing. Post-holiday stress, financial woes, and unmet expectations all play a starring role in this breakup drama. The transition from festive cheer to everyday grind can stir up tensions that push couples to the breaking point.

Marriage is an exciting journey that two individuals embark on together, filled with a range of emotions, challenges, and joys. Before saying "I do," it is essential for couples to have open and honest discussions about important topics that lay the foundation for a strong and successful marriage. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the seven crucial topics that couples should discuss before getting married, providing valuable insights and guidance.

The holiday season can be a whirlwind of emotions and responsibilities, as we navigate family dynamics and the pressures that come with it. It’s during these times that we may find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or even questioning the strength of our relationships. But fear not, for there are ways to not only survive but thrive during this journey together as a couple.

Before the chaos takes over, find a quiet moment to sit down with your spouse. Let’s call it your “sanity session.” This is an opportunity to have an open and honest conversation about your expectations and concerns. Share your thoughts, fears, and hopes for the holiday season. By doing so, you create a safe space where both of you can feel heard and supported. Remember, communication is key in any relationship, and this simple act of checking in with each other can lay the foundation for a strong and connected partnership.

“Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate”. - Mark 10:9

The declining health of my ex-mother-in-law intensifies these emotions as an outsider. She played a significant role in my life during my marriage, offering love, support, and wisdom when I needed it most. To say that I love and appreciate my mother-in-law is a gross understatement. In many ways, she was more of a mother to me than my own mother was. Even though she and I came from vastly different backgrounds and life experiences, we were very much alike. She is the mother and matriarch that I aspired to be. She is tIn July, I wrote about the wedding season and the importance of preparing for marriage. Despite my usual avoidance of similar topics, I find myself going through a personal challenge that reinforces the significance of “looking before you leap” into marriage.

Reflecting on my journey, I experience a mix of emotions. Almost 20 years have passed since my family broke apart due to divorce, and its lasting effects continue to shape my perspective on marriage. Today, as I write this post, it is my ex-mother-in-law’s 92nd birthday, and she is in palliative care. Not being a part of her life during such a significant time fills me with deep sadness and longing. This situation prompts me to once again evaluate my life and learn from my mistakes.

Ah, the wedding season! It is truly a special time of year when love and celebration fill the air. As we witness nature’s blooming flowers and vibrant colors, we are reminded of the beauty and joy that weddings bring.

Like tending to a garden, preparing for a wedding requires careful planning and attention to detail. As a wedding officiant, I appreciate the importance of this time not only for those eagerly looking forward to exchanging their vows but also for all of us who have experienced seasons of joy, change, and transition in our relationships.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters - whenever you face trials of many kinds - because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” ~ James 1: 2-4

Have you ever found yourself unsure of your direction in life or questioning your identity and purpose? It’s okay, we’ve all been there. Transitional periods in life can leave us feeling confused and stuck. But did you know that this state of uncertainty has a name? It’s called “liminality,” and it refers to the space between your old self and the person you’re becoming.

Liminality, or liminal space, is a term used to describe the state of being “in between” two different points in time or space. It’s a transitional period where you have left one stage behind but haven’t fully arrived at the next one. This can be a physical, emotional, or mental state that often comes with feelings of uncertainty, disorientation, and discomfort. However, it can also be a place of growth and transformation as you navigate through this “limbo” period towards a new understanding of yourself and your surroundings.

In fact, embracing the discomfort and uncertainty of liminal space can lead to greater resilience, faith, and personal development and that may be especially true for the men in our society.

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.” ~ Philippians 2:34

As the month of May begins, our minds are filled with thoughts of spring blooms, warmer weather, and outdoor activities. For many, it’s also the celebration of Mother's Day… a time when we honour the women who have nurtured us and helped us become who we are today. This year, however, I want to take a different approach to this holiday - one that goes beyond the flowers, cards, and brunches.

You might be surprised to learn that, despite the fact that motherhood is highly valued in our society, birth rates are actually declining. More women are delaying motherhood to prioritize education and careers, resulting in a 30% increase in the birth rate for women aged 30-34 since 1990, while the birth rate for women under 30 has declined. Overall, birth rates hit a record low in 2020 with only 55.8 births per 1,000 women aged 15-44.

One reason for this trend is what's been termed as "involuntary childlessness”, meaning that many couples who want children may face difficulties due to a variety of factors such as infertility or lack of available partners because they have waited till their thirties to start a family. The documentary “Birth Gap” explores this issue and its implications on individuals, families, and society as a whole - including an aging population with fewer young people to support them economically and socially.