When you've seen a couple fighting or having a pity argument, what is the first thing that comes in your mind? Probably you think that you will never allow arguments to set in your relationship, especially when you get married, or will never think to start one, but arguments seem to come naturally.
You argue about the brand of coffee, or what to eat at lunch, who will do the dishes, etc. Sometimes, more than that, but regardless of your reasons for the argument (or fight), fixing a troubled relationship and having a solution is very important.
Our partners are our most valuable fortunes. Companions provide a listening ear for our troubles, support for our dreams, and a safety net when we fall. They give us love, even when we are unlovable. They are and must be our friends.
Inevitably, though, sometimes we go through troubled periods and a solution should be sought through the following steps:
Address the situation. Admit to your partner that something is wrong and needs to be fixed.
Determine the problem. Together, discuss what problems we are facing. Be honest and let your honesty be in its proper place. Remember, you are talking to your partner, another half of yourself.
Apologize. We accept responsibility for our actions and seek forgiveness.
Refuse to blame. In addition, we must avoid defending ourselves. There could be a temptation to argue over who did what; however, the goal is not proving who is right but saving the relationship.
Begin repairs. Ask, "What can I do to rebuild our relationship?" The key here is to do willingly whatever is requested.
Commit to rebuilding. Immediately start investing your time, energy, and love in restoring the relationship. In order to have a good relationship with a partner who accepts and loves us, we must be willing to pay the high price of patching up the broken relationship. Walking away might seem easier, but in the long run, we would lose a valuable treasure.
32. It is essential to fix a troubled relationship in that __________.
A. arguments seem to come naturally
B. arguments are not allowed in a good relationship
C. companions provide us with comfort and support
D. sometimes we inevitably go through troubled periods
33. The solutions to fixing a troubled relationship do NOT include __________.
A. asking for forgiveness of the mistakes
B. bravely facing the existing problems
C. being honest when discussing the problems
D. trying to speak for ourselves to protect our rights
34. The author does NOT agree that __________.
A. our partners are our most valuable treasures
B. it’s sensible to ignore the heated argument for a while
C. proving who is to blame has nothing to do with the solution
D. it takes time, energy, and love to rebuild the broken relationship
35. The purpose of the text is to __________.
A. tell how to sensibly deal with troubled relationships
B. confirm that arguments are common in daily life
C. encourage people to invest love in a relationship
D. persuade people not to blame those who make mistakes