At the end of May, our daughters could not wait for school to end and summer vacation to start.  A hiatus from schedules, discipline and formal learning was welcomed.  However not more than two months later, each daughter claimed that they couldn’t wait to go back to school.  As a parent, these proclamations warmed my heart because I’ve always desired for my children to be life-long learners.  The challenge of learning taps a child’s potential and provides a sense of purpose in life.  The anticipation of reconnecting with friends and having new experiences is just as important as learning.

Back to school discussions often include the topic of who will be the new teacher.  A great teacher can be spotted a mile away.  S/he is the person who is excited about the subjects being taught and there is an undeniable interest in the students. Preparing to “go back to school” is not exclusive to children.  Adult education continues to be a growing field.  The education of a life-long learner extends beyond a formal classroom; it is a commitment to being a student on many levels, one of which is your marriage. Actively learning about marriage as opposed to passively absorbing marital information communicated by the predominant culture can re-establish a sense of marital meaning and purpose.  Active learning can be directly achieved through attending a marriage retreat or conference.  Just like professional development workshops inspire career development; in the same way a marriage conference inspires a relationship to grow.  Other active learning opportunities can be found through resources such as books, newsletters, articles, and classes.

You could also consider identifying a married individual who displays the same qualities of a great teacher in marriage?   Ask questions. Be curious.  Second, consider being a teacher.   Teaching a topic may be one of most effective means of learning.  In order to teach effectively a teacher will wrestle with, apply and practice the concepts being taught.  Teaching marriage principles requires a greater level of personal and relational commitment.  Teaching from a place of integrity can be a great motivator to be a more loving, committed, and attentive spouse.  One of the most available teaching opportunities can be found by leading a marriage small group or Sunday school class.

The bottom line is, throughout life we are all students and teachers at some point in time.  The difference is whether or not you are being intentional regarding the lessons learned and taught.  What do you want to learn from others?  Have you surrounded yourself with pro-marriage teachers?  Who are your students?  They could be a younger couple in your community.  They could be a peer couple from one of your children’s sports teams.  Most importantly, your students are your children.  What are you teaching them about marriage?  Take the time to go back to “marriage” school.  Learn as much about the topic of marriage.  This includes learning more about you and your spouse.  It will require you to ask questions of yourself, your spouse and your teachers.  In doing so, the purpose and potential of your marriage will be more fully realized.  Have a great school year!