The Heart of the Matter

A discussion of the qualities to look for in deciding who will likely make a good friend and who will not.

Meaningful events in a relationship need to be marked by a celebration. This program addresses practical tips for savoring special occasions.

The parenting relationship is a complex and special one that requires the parent to assume a dominant and loving attitude.

Appreciation is the atomic structure of affection. When we express our appreciation, we enjoy the benefits of feeling and sending gratitude.

When anger is aroused, many of us feel a pull toward immature expression of this emotion. We offer practical methods for safe and mature management of this potentially destructive emotion.

There are concrete steps one can take to rebuild trust and affect after a betrayal and we'll be exploring those possibilities.

All of us want to feel close and connected to our partner, but how do we do that? This program covers six important behaviors to avoid that undermine intimacy. In addition, we discuss six types of behavior that promoted couples feeling close and connected.

Responsible complaining is an important skill for successful friendship. Complaining should involve criticism, blaming or attacking. Good listening skills are required for processing our partner's complaints.

Most of us want rewarding, satisfying relationships, those that are mutually pleasurable. A deeper understanding of the element of friendship can guide us toward this goal.

Intimacy is a process, not a destination. We recommend daily rituals and tools to sustain connection.

To maintain a healthy relationship, both people have to play by the same set of rules. We'll offer 10 rules that work.

The fun is over; the bills are due. This is a likely time to feel sad--unless you take charge of January.

One major difference between happy and unhappy couples is the ability to resolve conflict effectively with respect. Most of us learned only unfair and dirty tactics for arguing and fighting to settle differences. Negotiation is a step-by-step alternative to unfair tactics.

We’re supposed to mature with age. In the arena of relationships, we may not know what emotional maturity looks like. We’ll give examples of both mature and immature emotional behaviors.

Men and women approach intimacy in different ways. What appeals to a man may not appeal to a woman. We’ll discuss the common differences and how to address them.

How we feel about ourselves affects how successful we’ll be in our primary relationship. We provide tips for improving self-esteem so that your relationship isn’t hampered by a history of self-criticism.

Join in today’s discussion on creating healthy relationships: achieving resolution through the art of negotiating.

Anger is part of the human experience. However, feelings of love and friendship depend on gentleness. We cannot afford to be very angry very often.

The Five G’s—Gentleness, Generosity, Graciousness, Gratitude, and Goodwill—are essential attitudes and forms of conduct that support the caring part of a friendship.

Join Rev. George Whitton and guests Rev. Suzanne and Matt Carter for a discussion on ways to keep relationships alive, fresh, and loving.