Marriage isn't about becoming one person. It's about two whole individuals choosing to grow together in a way that creates something far stronger than the sum of its parts. But the reality? That kind of connection doesn't come easy. It takes diligent, ongoing effort for each spouse to develop themselves as confident individuals, and then to intentionally build a relationship that thrives on shared purpose and deep connection. That's the heartbeat of a powerhouse marriage.

Consider Dan and Joanne Miller. Dan Miller, the New York Times Best-Selling author who passed two years ago, left a lasting legacy—not just in his work, but in the way he and Joanne modeled marriage.

Now, even though Dan was an incredible author, Joanne was an author as well, along with being an artist. She had her talents just as much as Dan had his.

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Unfortunately, in January of 2024, Dan graduated and went home to be with our Lord. Yet, his legacy still lives on through Joanne and his children.

However, this is not all about him. Dan and Joanne were the dynamic, powerhouse couple who changed people's lives for the better.

But this is where we have to pause. They were not a "powerhouse" couple because of income, fame, or status. No, their "powerhouse" came from their heart—the mutual respect for each other's individuality paired with an unshakable partnership that powered every part of their life together.

You don't have to be a bestseller or a public figure to create a "powerhouse" marriage.

If you looked at your marriage, how would you describe it? What words would you use? What feelings come up when you think about you and your spouse being together, yet being an individual, too?

You can become a "powerhouse" couple and have a marriage that stands out because of two hearts becoming one. But you must be will to build that foundation.

The K.I.S.S. ~ Build that "powerhouse" foundation!

Here's what couples must focus on to build that foundation:

1. Cultivate Individual Confidence

Before you can build a strong "we," you must invest in "me." Each partner should pursue personal growth, embrace their passions, and develop a strong sense of identity outside the marriage. This isn't selfish—it's necessary. When both partners feel confident and whole on their own, they bring their best selves into the relationship instead of seeking completion through the other.

Dan and Joanne each had their unique strengths and contributions. That individuality was the soil in which their marriage roots grew deep and healthy. If you're unsure where you stand as an individual, start there. Get crystal clear on your values, purpose, and goals. Who are you as an individual? And know that you change, too, as you grow in experience and age.

2. Build Intentional Connection and Communication

Strong couples don't just "click" by accident. They work harder than most on the fundamentals: honesty, vulnerability, and active listening. Sharing your truths—even when uncomfortable—and intentionally tuning in to your partner's needs create a connection that weathers storms.

Dan and Joanne's marriage exemplified this daily commitment to connection. They prioritized conversations that mattered, supported each other's dreams, and openly navigated challenges with transparency and grace. That's how a "powerhouse" couple stays aligned on life's ups and downs.

3. Create Shared Purpose and Celebrate Teamwork

Two confident individuals coming together create a powerhouse only when they are aligned on their shared mission in life. This mission could be raising a family, building a business, serving a community, or simply choosing joy in everyday life—but it must be a joint pursuit.

Dan and Joanne shared a heart for inspiring and helping others thrive and live out their God-given purpose, which fueled their partnership far beyond any personal accolade or achievement. Find your "why" together, make decisions as a team, and celebrate wins—big or small—as a collective force. Dan and Joanne didn't do everything together, but they did do life together.

Why settle for "just married" when you can be a power couple in the truest sense?

Being a powerhouse couple isn't about wealth or status; it's about becoming two strong, whole people intentionally growing a relationship rooted in respect, communication, and shared vision. It's hard work—but Dan and Joanne Miller's legacy teaches us that the payoff is a marriage that not only lasts but thrives as a force for good in the world.

Since Dan's passing, you can still see the ripple effect of him and Joanne being a "powerhouse" couple. Just because they are separated by life and a physical death, has not separated their hearts. I know Joanne would say they are eternally connected, and she's excited about the day when she sees her husband again. But in the meantime, they are still a "powerhouse" couple because of how they continue to make an impact on the world they touch.

I hope this inspires you, not to be like them, but to become the "powerhouse" couple God is calling you to. You are created for more in marriage!

"Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!"

#RelationshipBuilders #CreateYourNow #LoveAndMarriage

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Cover Art by Jenny Hamson

Photo by Canva.com

Music by Mandisa - Overcomer

http://www.mandisaofficial.com

Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

#76 - Qué es la virtud y cómo practicarla

El Estoico | Estoicismo en español

¿Se nace virtuoso o se hace?

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