 By Lavern Nissley
Encompass Relationship Facilitator The holidays can be tough on relationships. We know because of the usual uptick in calls for help in January! You've been together with family and friends which provides a lot more time and space for conversations than usual. Tangible gifts are given and received. And some are later returned. What are some gifts we could give that are precious, priceless, and premeditated to strengthen and deepen relationships?
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 By Dr David Marine Mabry Encompass Executive Director Devotionals to Deepen Your Love and Faith This Christmas
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the many gifts we’ve received—both tangible and intangible. One of the most meaningful gifts we can nurture and give in return is the gift of healthy relationships. Whether you’re dating, engaged, or married, cultivating a relationship rooted in love, faith, and connection is truly one of life’s greatest blessings.  By Cindee Johnson Relationship Champion and Encompass Partner It’s that time of year when our thoughts turn to roast turkey and baked ham, pumpkin pie with whipped cream, mashed potatoes and gravy, cranberry sauce, green beans, stuffing, deviled eggs, sweet potato casserole, macaroni and cheese, pecan pie, fresh dinner rolls, and…family. Ahhhh, the family. We gather together with family giving thanks with grateful hearts. Or do we?
Do we give thanks with grateful hearts? And, does it really matter? Turns out, it does. In fact, it matters a lot.  By Abby Glaser Encompass Community Advocate Often in our office, we see couples who should have come to us much sooner! By the time they step through our door, their relationship is on the verge of total disaster. On average, couples in crisis wait far longer than they should to reach out for help. So how do you know when you should? Let’s look at three signs to keep an eye out for!
 By Dr David Marine Mabry Encompass Executive Director Many of us grew up with sayings like, “Forgive and forget,” or assumed that forgiving someone meant excusing their actions. But these are myths about forgiveness that can make the journey to healing feel impossible. So today, let’s explore what forgiveness is—and isn’t—to help you find a path forward that feels right for both you and your relationship.
 By Dr David Marine Mabry Encompass Executive Director Marriage is a beautiful journey, but like all relationships, it has its ups and downs. The good news is that you have the power to shape the quality of your relationship. By making intentional choices and focusing on the things that bring you closer as a couple, you can create a stronger, happier, and more peaceful marriage.
 By Theresa Mabry Encompass Director of Operations Picture this: You’re on your way home after a long day of work, thinking, “I can’t wait to take off these shoes, grab a bite to eat, and have a relaxing evening.” But when you walk in the door, your spouse says, “I assumed you’d want to go out with friends tonight, so I made plans!” Suddenly, your vision of a quiet evening clashes with your partner’s expectation of a fun night out.
It’s a common scenario, and it all comes down to one word: expectations. In any relationship, expectations can be a powerful force. When shared and understood, they help create a strong foundation. However, when misaligned or unrealistic, they can lead to confusion, disappointment, and conflict.  By Abby Glaser Encompass Community Advocate (This is a "rerun" of a post we shared in 2019!)
I was listening to a podcast recently where the guest shared something called the “10-7-5 Rule”. The gist of it is that each person has ten defining moments, seven critical choices and five pivotal people who impact who they are. Defining moments, both positive and negative, are events who have changed or redefined who we are. Many of those are situations out of our control and our response to them is what changes us. Critical choices, also positive or negative, have affected our life up until today and set the path for our future.  By Lavern Nissley
Encompass Relationship Facilitator "True" and "truth" certainly sound the same, and they are related. But by the time you finish reading an embarrassing anecdote of mine you'll see a subtle difference between the two and that people may employ one or the other for a reason. Here's the embarrassing personal story . . .  By Dr David Marine Mabry Encompass Executive Director Have you ever looked at a couple and thought, “Wow, how did they get so lucky? They make marriage look effortless!” Here’s the secret: it’s not luck. Every strong relationship you see takes effort, patience, and intentional communication. Behind that sense of ease lies a shared commitment to building and nurturing the relationship—something every couple can cultivate.
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HostsDr. David Marine and Theresa Mabry are Co-Directors of Encompass since June 1, 2024. TOPICS
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Program content is the sole responsibility of Encompass Connection Center and does not necessarily represent the views of the funders.
Encompass Connection Center services are provided to all eligible persons on a non-discriminatory basis. Encompass Connection Center complies with all applicable laws and regulations concerning discrimination does not discriminate on the basis of the potential participant's race, gender, gender orientation, age, disability or religion.
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Program content is the sole responsibility of Encompass Connection Center and does not necessarily represent the views of the funders.
Encompass Connection Center services are provided to all eligible persons on a non-discriminatory basis. Encompass Connection Center complies with all applicable laws and regulations concerning discrimination does not discriminate on the basis of the potential participant's race, gender, gender orientation, age, disability or religion.
Registered 501(c)(3). EIN: 37-1485217