The Royal Way Marriage Court
by M.R.
Every day, thousands and thousands of people get married. That first day of marriage is the start of the honeymoon period. The honeymoon period can last anywhere from three to 12 months, or as long as you want it to last. During this period, nothing seems to go wrong, and you want to do everything you can to make the other person happy.
After the honeymoon period, something happens. Maybe both people take each other, and their marriage, for granted. One or both people feel undervalued. You become so comfortable that you leave the toilet seat up and scatter your clothes around the house. You don’t bother to dress sexy or make those fancy dinners.
Remember the days when you often held each other’s hands while out—anytime, anywhere? You would cuddle all the time. You would have romantic nights out, date nights. Now, it appears that your marriage is stuck in a rut, and though you still love each other, you’re a little too comfortable in each other’s company.
What’s a married couple to do? Call Firouzeh and schedule a case with the Royal Way Marriage Court. Thirteen years ago, on the Greek Odyssey, Michael created the Marriage Court. Michael knew that married couples needed a place to go where they could vent, express their frustrations, and get impartial feedback. He chose five couples to be on the Marriage Court. Elisabeth and I were one of those couples.
I can imagine how difficult it must be to expose the difficulties a couple is having in front of 10 people. It’s also the beauty that Michael created when he created the court. He knew the couples on the Marriage Court would listen objectively, with openness, and provide straight feedback.
When a couple comes to the Marriage Court, I feel a connection with them, because there have been times in my marriage when I’ve experienced some of their issues.
I experience myself at my best when I’m on the Marriage Court. I feel connected with Michael and his teachings. I experience the wanting and caring for each couple that comes to see us.
After each Marriage Court session, I examine my marriage and my life. What can I do to be a better person, husband, and father? I’m so thankful for each opportunity.
Many times at the end of a Marriage Court session, the couples thank us. They’re surprised when we thank them. All of us on the Marriage Court get so much from each case.
This year at the Patron Day Celebration, there was a dance for all the married couples that have come before the Marriage Court. It was incredible to see how many couples have taken advantage of this most incredible opportunity that Michael created.
On a different note, I’ve never felt comfortable sharing the good things in my life. So here I go:
I had the most incredible, abundant, bountiful harvest of my Fuji apple tree in 17 years. Each bite of apple was like biting into a beehive full of honey.
While companies fired and laid off thousands of people every day, I got promoted and received a fairly substantial raise. I love my job. I enjoy going to work every day. I’m constantly being challenged, and I learn new things daily.
I feel more connected to people. When I start a conversation with someone, I don’t have that feeling of wanting to leave. I actually enjoy having a conversation. I enjoy hugging every one of you at the end of the Doo-Dah. If I hug you too hard, let me know.
A couple recently came to the Marriage Court and said, “Thank God for the Marriage Court.” I say, “Thank God Michael gave us all the Marriage Court.” I feel blessed for being part of the Marriage Court all these years. Thank you, Michael!