The Greatest of Great Expectations...

I was researching and reading about some of the most devastating problems that can occur in a marriage. I saw all of the usual things: communication, finances, sex. But then I stumbled upon an article that named expectations as a problem in marriages. I didn't read the article, so I cannot be sure as to what the author's perception was, but I began to think.
Could a person expect their marriage to death?
I do believe that it's possible.
Now, expectations would not be used as a valid reason in divorce court, but I believe that the phrase "irreconcilable difference" is no different. Think about it.
Before you got married, even before you thought about marriage, you had certain impressions about what marriage was. At least, I know that I did. I saw my parents and grandparents: my father and grandfather were the sole providers for the families, and my mother and grandmother took care of the homes and the children. I saw examples of marriage on television and read about it in books. As I got older, I better understood the dynamics, but the examples became a little different. I begin to see more unhappiness than happiness, more arguments that civility, more tolerance than love and more independence than teamwork.
I begin to see where the expectations can be the downfall.

Amos 3:3

"How can two walk together

Unless they agree to do so?"

Expectations are fine. As a matter of fact, the banner at the door of my church reads: "Come expecting. Leave receiving." Failing to have expectations for your marriage is like walking into a room blindfolded; you think you know what to expect, but without seeing, you have no idea.
Expecting the best in your husband is one of the best parts of being his wife. You know his strengths. You participate in the manifestation of his dreams. You are there to encourage, help and push him forward into his destiny.
Awesome job, really...
But the thing about expectations is, if you and your hubby aren't expecting the same thing, won't be working toward the same goal.
It is important to talk about expectations before you get married, but even more important to continue the discussion afterward. Times change and so do the both of you. As your life together progresses, it is increasingly important to stay on the same page about what direction it is going in. We have to move together. Always keep in mind that you and your husband are a team, working together to constantly exceed your goals and expectations together. Expectations change, and you all have to change together, with them.
Don't allow individual expectations become death to your marriage.
Expect together...