The Garden City Telegram
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Groundhog Day is a time to reconnect
Published 2/2/2010 in Commentary
In the 1993 movie "Groundhog Day," Bill Murray plays a TV weatherman who, during a hated assignment covering the annual Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney, finds himself repeating the same day over and over again. After ugly behavior and numerous suicide attempts, he begins to re-examine his life and priorities. Eventually, he is able to befriend almost everyone he meets during the day, using his experiences to save lives, help townspeople and to get closer to his co-workers.
"Groundhog Day" is a tale of self-improvement which emphasizes that real satisfaction in life comes from turning outward and connecting with others rather than concentrating solely on our own wants and desires. So, today's Groundhog Day celebration is a great reminder to reconnect with those we love.
Strengthening connections with family and friends can add joy to life and serve as the foundation for a support system during the inevitable ups and downs in life, according to Charlotte Shoup Olsen, Kansas State Research and Extension family systems specialist.
In educating couples on how to enhance and strengthen their relationship, Olsen encourages setting aside time each day for a walk, cup of coffee or conversation about their day. She also urges couples to continue the "dates" that built their relationship during their early times together.
A couple's relationship serves as the basis of their -- and their family's -- life together, so couples should not feel guilty about scheduling special time for their relationship. Here are some easy ideas for couple time which can begin on Groundhog Day and continue into the future:
* Set a time and date for couple time, and protect it.
* Mix it up -- try not to do the same thing (like dinner and a movie) for every date.
* Allow quiet time to talk, but leave controversial subjects such as money troubles at home.
* Practice listening intently. Try not to rush to finish a sentence or cut off a thought or idea.
* Build on a common interest -- or explore a new one.
* Don't let cost be an obstacle. Consider trading child-care responsibilities with friends or neighbors to allow each couple time off.
* Be creative. Walking the dog together, packing a picnic lunch or biking to a park can be a great date.
* Think back to early dates, when you were just getting to know each other: What attracted you? What have you enjoyed together? And, how can you build on it?
* Celebrate everyday blessings, and build on gratitude. As Bill Murray discovered in the movie, a positive attitude and sincere interest in others may be just what's needed to get out of your rut.
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