More News

Lasting love and deep intimacy don't just happen, says counselor and clergy member Marilyn Hardy of Upper Marlboro. You've got to be purposeful to keep a relationship going strong amid competing responsibilities. Families, careers – in the ups as well as the downs – can drive couples apart.

Hardy is one of several panel speakers scheduled to appear at a Feb. 28 event sponsored by Y Note Publishing focusing on how to keep the passion and sexual spark alive in marriage.

The workshop, "Bedroom Secrets: Sizzling, Sexy Solutions" will teach participants how to take romance to new levels. The event is open to couples as well as singles who want to learn how to really make a relationship work.

The program, which will take place at the Watkins Park Nature Center, is part of a workshop series called "Transition 2009: Stepping into Change From the Inside Out." Through a variety of ongoing events, local authors will challenge Prince George's County residents to connect to the atmosphere of change in the country by learning new strategies to improve their lives.

Hardy, who moved to the county from central Florida about a year ago, is the author of the forthcoming book, "Before You Say I Do, Make Sure You Can." As one who has counseled engaged and married couples, Hardy says distrust, financial worries, family influence and other concerns can keep men and women disconnected from each other. The key to success, she says, is to value your mate.

"A husband should see his wife as his most precious treasure, and vice versa," Hardy said. "When you treasure something, you don't let it get dusty and moldy. Your treasure is where your heart is."

That kind of mindset can keep a marriage on solid ground even when babies, physical changes or long hours at work require a couple to make changes in their sexual relationship.

"Things happen, but you make arrangements with each other," she said. "When you're truly in love, you're always ready to be with your partner. You tell your partner, ‘I've been waiting for you all day, and I can't wait for the next time.'"

Men can create a stronger bond with their wives by learning to listen with their ears and heart. "You say she complains, but are you really hearing her?"

Her advice to women: "Learn to change your language and speak your mind in a different way."

So instead of bombarding your sweetie with demands the minute he comes through the door, give him a minute to collect himself, she said.

"Be loving, make things pleasant for him," Hardy said. "When everything settles down, then talk to him about what didn't go right. Ask him how his day went first. You'll have a loving night and a better day tomorrow because you talked it out."

How she makes a difference: Hardy, a counselor and clergy member, will serve as a panelist for the upcoming workshop

"Bedroom Secrets," scheduled to take place at 11 a.m. Feb. 28. The cost is $20. Call 301-218-1858.