Thomas Nelson Book Review: The Language of Love and Respect

The book Love and Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs is a phenomenal book about the relationship between a man and a woman, particularly in a marital relationship. It clearly defines (whether we really realized it or not) a woman's need to be loved and cherished above all other things and a husband's need to be respected above all. If either love or respect is compromised or questioned, the marital relationship begins a crazy cycle that further destructs.

This book takes the original version the additional step by discussing how we can communicate love and respect to our husbands and wives respectively.

I found the clear, simple explanations of communication refreshing, easy to understand and apply, and eager to follow. Nothing is that new- (think Dave Ramsey: nothing new, just easy to understand principles and clear direction)- but it is all true and applicable.

One concept that really hit me was to 'assume my partner means goodwill'. I found myself applying this communication idea to other relationships as well. If I always assume that a person means no harm, but my well being and good, then I will avoid a lot less stress, strife, and broken down communication.

I found that this book was quite repetitive not only of the concepts taught in the previous Love and Respect book, but also within itself. I would have enjoyed it more had it been a little more precise and condensed.

Communication is one of the top reasons marriages and other relationships suffer. Learning how to communicate Love and Respect to one another is a crucial survival skill for these relationships. The Language of Love and Respect does a fine job of breaking down the details and giving clear and constructive ideas to enhance or improve this communication and I would recommend this to any married or premarital couple.