Musings of a Married Woman 1 - Double the Blessings!

One of the perks of married life is this: when you get married, your blessings double! You get another home, another set of parents, another family, another set of friends.

Sounds too good to be true, does it?

It's true that when you get married, you may (or may not) get to choose your partner. But you definitely cannot choose the family, relatives and friends that your partner enters your life with. It's easy to judge, say that they are not your type, pore into their mistakes, and generally complain or wear a long face when you have to meet (some of) them. We all do it sometimes.

But I'm learning that it takes courage to love your partner's family and welcome your partner's friends like they are your own. It won't always be easy, not with everyone.

Here's a friendly tip from someone who is also trying and learning each day:

• Remember that no one is perfect. Not even you!
• Know that there is some good in everyone - look for it, focus on it.
• Finally, and most importantly, count your blessings!

And, like the Achen said during his remarkable sermon at my wedding, consider them not your parents-in-law or your family-in-law, but as your parents-in-love and your family-in-love.

Try. Because it's worth the effort!