What We Can Learn from the Marriage of Gabrielle Giffords and Mark Kelly

Almost anyone who has seen reports about Gabrielle Giffords would likely say her progress since her shooting has been a complete miracle. The interview she and her husband, Mark Kelly, did with Diane Sawyer was beautiful and inspiring, not just because of the positive energy she exudes and the progress she's made but also because of how her relationship is with her husband. They seem to have one of those relationships that give even some of the biggest skeptics a little hope that love really can be a beautiful thing when it's with the right person. Even if you're currently slightly jaded, there's several lessons you can learn from the marriage of Gabrielle Giffords and Mark Kelly.

Relationships aren't all flowers and sunshine

Chances are you know at least one person who dumped their partner as soon as things got difficult in the relationship. There are some who are under the impression that relationships are basically supposed to be perfect, and if they're not close to it, it's a reason to kick the person to the curb. As evidenced from what happened to Giffords, the unexpected can happen in a heartbeat, and whether you're in a relationship or married, it means sticking with your partner despite the adversity and realizing that no relationship is perfect.

Patience is something we all need more of

Even though Gabrielle Giffords was injured, Mark Kelly could have have been one of those husbands who screamed at their partner out of frustration. He could have gotten angry when she didn't respond the way he wanted her to, but he didn't. Injured or not, our partners aren't always going to respond the way we want them to, but that doesn't mean we have to flip out and get angry. Most of the time, patience can go much further than any amount of yelling can.

Be your partner's biggest cheerleader

I was in a relationship where I was sick for awhile, and rather than get support, all I got was kicked while I was (literally) down. It made me feel horrible and it did nothing for my healing process. From what the public saw and heard, Mark Kelly was Giffords' biggest cheerleader, even while he was out in space. Your partner deserves your support whether they're trying to heal and recover from being sick or injured or they want to find a new job. It can mean everything when you know you have your partner by your side every step of the way.

Positivity can do wonders

Although Mark and Gabrielle likely had negative and doubtful moments, they've worked hard to stay positive for themselves and for each other. I have no doubt that positivity plays a big role in everything. You have to work to be positive for yourself just as much as you are for your partner. Pick up the slack for each other when you're having negative moments, but your own positivity can do wonders for yourself as well as your relationship.

The marriage of Gabrielle Giffords and Mark Kelly may not be perfect, but it shows that, even while facing adversity, you can come through it if you stick together. Relationships are hard work, but when you're willing to put in the effort, the rewards are so incredibly worth it.