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Messy Family Podcast : Catholic Conversations on Marriage and FamilyAuthor: Mike and Alicia Hernon : Catholic Marriage Parent and Family
Parenting is not a clean-cut, simple process for those who like to follow the rules. Family life is messy and unpredictable, but it is the greatest adventure you will ever have. We are Mike and Alicia Hernon, parents of 10 children with a growing number of grandchildren, and we would like to invite you into some of the conversations we have had with each other about marriage, parenting, and Catholic family life. Our hope is that our conversation sparks a dialogue between you and your spouse that leads to greater unity and intentional Christian parenting in your home. Listen in to our podcast and start the conversation as we seek to lead our families to heaven. Visit us at https:///www/MessyFamilyProject.org for resources, guides, links and show notes. Language: en-us Genres: Christianity, Kids & Family, Parenting, Religion & Spirituality Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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MFP 371: How Vulnerability Is Built in Small Moments
Monday, 2 March, 2026
Love is not a feeling. It's a daily choice, a habit practiced proactively. Summary What if intimacy isn't built in the big moments, but in the small ones you almost miss? In this episode, we explore the idea of bids for connection, the everyday ways we reach for each other through a question, a touch, a story, or even a glance across the room. We talk about what happens when those bids are noticed and met with kindness, and what slowly unfolds when they are ignored. You'll hear how responsiveness, presence, and emotional generosity shape trust, passion, and long-term happiness more than grand romantic gestures ever could. If you want a stronger, closer relationship, this conversation will help you see the simple choices that build intimacy over time. Couple Discussion Questions What are some small bids that you make that I may not always notice? What is one simple way we could turn toward each other more consistently this week? Key Takeaways Bids are everyday requests for connection. They can be verbal or nonverbal, big or small, serious or playful. Turning toward builds trust and intimacy. Consistent responsiveness creates emotional safety and closeness. Ignored bids create distance over time. Missed or rejected bids often lead to frustration, criticism, and disconnection. Vulnerability grows through small, repeated moments. Clear, honest bids and kind responses strengthen intimacy more than grand gestures. Resources https://www.eviemagazine.com/post/the-case-for-centering-your-life-around-romantic-love https://therapygroupdc.com/therapist-dc-blog/bids-for-connection-why-small-gestures-matter-in-relationships/ https://www.gottman.com/blog/want-to-improve-your-relationship-start-paying-more-attention-to-bids/ MFP Guide to Communication https://messyfamilyproject.org/guide/communication/
