Several years ago, I watched a young couple perform an ice skating routine more beautifully than any I had ever seen. In fact, at the end of their performance, their pose was so full of passion and love, it was difficult to keep my eyes on them. I felt like I was intruding.
When w
e think of iconic ice skating partnerships, few come to mind as readily as that of Gordeeva and Grinkov, the legendary figure skating duo whose on-ice chemistry and grace captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. But beyond their athletic prowess, Gordeeva and Grinkov's partnership serves as a poignant analogy for what makes a successful marriage.
e think of iconic ice skating partnerships, few come to mind as readily as that of Gordeeva and Grinkov, the legendary figure skating duo whose on-ice chemistry and grace captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. But beyond their athletic prowess, Gordeeva and Grinkov's partnership serves as a poignant analogy for what makes a successful marriage.A successful marriage - seeking an understanding has become important to me. In 2020 I finally saw the truth of my very unhealthy marriage of 41 years, and left.
I have used the time since then to rebuild myself and consider what makes a healthy marriage. My journey has been very difficult. But, this year I finally came to a point where I can think positively about possibly building a new relationship.
With a clearer mind, I remembered a book that the marriage counselor a couple of years ago recommended to me - Men of Strength for Women of God. The premise of the book is that men’s strength of body and mind are to be used to help, protect, and empower women to fulfill their desires in ways that help her reach higher and farther than she could by herself.
Recently, a reel came across my Facebook newsfeed of an ice skating pair. As I watched them perform, I realized that that is the perfect analogy for my idea of an ideal marriage - his strength to help her achieve beautiful moves. Here are some of my thoughts. She has to have complete, 100% trust in him. If he drops her, she is easily harmed. His role is to provide the security for her to beautifully excel. And she trusts that he is well-prepared and will do just that.
She cannot do the leaps, jumps, twists, and upside down moves, etc. without his incredible strength. She is more stunning with those moves. The entire routine is. They both have to have this unfettered, complete trust in each other with the willingness to keep working together so that each can fulfill their actions flawlessly.
When I see her beautifully thrown in the air and caught, I catch my breath as their trust and strength are perfectly exemplified.
Men bring their strength into the partnership, diligently preparing their muscles and awareness for the throws, catches, and intricate maneuvers that define their role. Driven
by the desire to be perceived as strong, they perfect their skills, knowing that their strength supports the woman's full potential. Trust, preparation, and communication are essential for both partners, who aim for perfection together through dedicated practice.
by the desire to be perceived as strong, they perfect their skills, knowing that their strength supports the woman's full potential. Trust, preparation, and communication are essential for both partners, who aim for perfection together through dedicated practice.His strength serves as a cornerstone for her aspirations, enabling them to form a powerful team where each contributes their strengths to elevate the other.
When they skate separately, their movements are synchronized and harmonized, showcasing the best qualities of each individual while maintaining unity as a team.
Accusations have no place in their partnership. While mistakes and accidents may occur, they are never intentional. Finger-pointing only serves to erode trust. If trust is compromised and cannot be swiftly restored, their performance suffers. Questions linger: Will he catch me? Will she be ready? I can imagine the inability to perform at one’s best when the trust is gone.
Hence, there must be a recognition that the pair should consider parting ways if their relationship erodes rather than nurtures. If doubts or fears persist, it's essential for the pair to reevaluate their situation. They cannot perform at their peak in an environment marked by increased stress and a lack of trust and confidence. If trust cannot be restored, it may be time for them to separate and move forward. There is strength in acknowledging this reality. Not dealing with the situation can cause more harm. I speak from personal experience - don’t wait 41 years.
Using the perfection of their skating, the partnership of Ekaterina Gordeeva and Sergei Grinkov offers valuable insights into what makes a successful marriage. By embodying principles of trust, communication, shared goals, emotional support, and passion, couples can cultivate a strong and enduring bond that stands the test of time.
Here are some of those principles applied to creating a healthy relationship:
Trust and Dependability: Like Gordeeva and Grinkov's seamless performances on the ice, a strong marriage is built on a foundation of trust and dependability. Just as they relied on each other to execute complex maneuvers with precision, spouses must trust one another to support and uplift each other through life's twists and turns. Trust forms the bedrock of a healthy relationship, allowing partners to weather challenges and celebrate triumphs together.
Shared Goals and Vision: Gordeeva and Grinkov shared a common goal: to achieve excellence in their sport. Similarly, a successful marriage thrives when partners share a vision for their future and work together towards common goals. Whether it's raising a family, pursuing career aspirations, or traveling the world, aligning priorities and dreams fosters unity and mutual support within the marriage.
Communication and Connection: Behind every flawless performance were hours of practice and communication (without accusations, sarcasm, bitterness) between Gordeeva and Grinkov. Likewise, open and honest communication is essential in a marriage, allowing partners to express their needs, desires, and concerns openly without fear. Cultivating a strong emotional connection through regular communication deepens intimacy and strengthens the bond between husband and wife.
Emotional Support and Understanding: Beyond the physical aspects of their partnership, Gordeeva and Grinkov shared a profound emotional connection that shone through in their performances. In a marriage, spouses provide emotional support and understanding, offering a safe harbor in times of uncertainty and a source of strength during life's challenges. Being there for each other unconditionally fosters a sense of security and belonging within the marriage.
Passion and Commitment: Gordeeva and Grinkov's performances were marked by their undeniable passion for their craft and unwavering commitment to excellence. Similarly, a successful marriage thrives on passion and commitment, with spouses dedicated to nurturing their relationship and continuing to grow together over time. Investing in the marriage with love, effort, and dedication ensures that the flame of passion continues to burn bright.
However, perhaps the most poignant lesson that Gordeeva and Grinkov's partnership teaches us is the importance of sacrifice and selflessness. Theirs was a relationship built on mutual care and sacrifice, as evidenced by the incidents where Sergei stayed by Katia's side when she was injured, strengthening himself to prevent further accidents, and how he carried her around the rink when she couldn't skate due to an injury. These acts of love and devotion speak volumes about the depth of their bond—a bond that transcended the ice rink and endured until Sergei's untimely passing.
Remarkably, their coach recognized early on that neither Katia nor Sergei would excel as individual skaters, but together as a pair, they had immense potential. Isn't this the perfect analogy of what a marriage should embody? Together, the couple surpasses the capabilities of each individual alone.
Let us be inspired to cultivate our own love stories, built on the foundation of mutual respect, understanding, and unwavering devotion. And, as exemplified in the skating of Gordeeva and Grinkov, may each of us experience the magic of lifelong companionship. Don’t wait too long to get that right companionship.
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