Shared Investment

CORE PRACTICE #41: Work to accomplish something important together; as you do, you’ll see your marriage growing stronger.

I [Paul] have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” —Acts 20:35

Lauren

When Tony was coaching the Buccaneers, we began participating in assemblies at Tampa schools with some of the players, but both my husband and I wanted to do something more personal and hands-on. That’s when we began visiting classrooms and reading to the students. Since we started this venture before Tony retired, we couldn’t commit to a regular schedule. If anything, we used his time away from the office to drop in on our children’s schools.

But now we can visit two different elementary school classrooms in the Tampa area every Tuesday during the school year. We read one of our children’s books out loud, talk about it with the students afterward, and donate books to encourage them to continue reading.

I taught elementary school for a number of years, so I know that one of the most gratifying moments in working with children is when you see the light go on in their eyes as they begin to connect with the words on the page. It is so rewarding to get a thank-you note from a teacher or a student letting us know that not only did he or she have fun, but we might have made a difference in a young person’s life. Some of the children have even sent us books they’ve written!

Serving together has strengthened our marriage too. Tony received many accolades as an NFL coach, but my admiration for him has really grown as I’ve watched him interact with young boys who have no father figures at home. In addition, with six kids still living under our roof, we enjoy these few hours to ourselves every Tuesday. Our classroom visits often spark discussions later between us as Tony and I explore better ways to answer students’ questions and make God’s ideas clearer and more relevant to young people.

It’s important to make memories—of any kind—with your spouse. Those often become some of the building blocks of your relationship. But the memories of the times you serve together are likely to be among the most enduring.

Adventure Application: What could you do together that would make a lasting impact? If you’re drawing a blank, organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters, The Salvation Army, or Habitat for Humanity might help you come up with ideas. If you already serve together, discuss how satisfied each of you is with that outreach.