What Heather came to understand was that when exposed to an environment where respect is abused, demanded and used as a way to control, the exact opposite occurs and it breeds an undercurrent of resentment and contempt. 

Extend kind words and being polite was about as much trust and respect Heather was willing to give up. 

I had noticed by just being polite, Dale's heart towards Heather started to open up and he would become more kind with his words.  Then in Heather's respect experiment, she started to do kind things for him and as she extended a little more trust and respect, his heart opened up even a little more and they started to get a bit of momentum going. At the same time rebuilding trust.

Respect spills into everything.

Here are a few examples:

• Not undermining your husband's parenting style.
  • Ask your kids, "what does Dad say about that?"
• Finances -  learn to agree with how you spend our money
• Avoid nagging
• Give him space and time to spend on his hobbies
• ...and more!

As much as Men like to be and feel loved, as a core, they need to feel respected.

 

The One Key

Wives, ask your Husband: What does respect look like to you?
Guys, write your list and share it with your spouse.