Pilot and Co-pilot in Marriage
The Importance of Arguing with Love and Maintaining Emotional Control
Marriage is not a contract that prohibits disagreements. Father Ángel Espinosa los Monteros , “It’s okay to argue from courtship until after 50 years of marriage. It’s okay to argue with love and for love, not with envy, anger, lust, greed, or pride.” The key is not in avoiding conflict, but in how differences are handled
Arguing with your partner can mean wanting the best for each other, wanting to spend more time together, keeping the house organized, or sharing meaningful family moments. “There are so many beautiful things to argue about. Just fight, fight,” says Father Ángel, reminding us that even saints argued, but they didn’t insult each other or act out of selfishness. Saint Paul, Saint Peter, Padre Pio, John Paul II, and Mother Teresa are examples of people who fought and were committed to the common good.
The priest also points out the importance of not losing one’s temper simultaneously. “Husband and wife can’t be angry at the same time. One must maintain control while the other manages their frustration,” he explains. This analogy with an airplane, where one pilot leaves the cockpit while the other maintains control, illustrates the need for balance and empathy in daily life.
It’s vital to recognize that we can all have a bad day. “Don’t stoop to the level of someone going through a difficult time. One of you has to maintain control,” she advises. This ability to stay calm allows you to help the other person and prevent a minor conflict from escalating.
Father Ángel’s final message is clear: let us understand, be empathetic, and remain grounded. Let us do good in every action and bless those we love. Arguments in marriage are not forbidden, but rather an opportunity to grow together when handled with love and respect.
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