MODULE 2A

In 2025, we celebrated 48 years in this journey of marriage—a journey of love, friendship, patience, shared challenges, valuable lessons, growth, and victories. On the 28th of May, 2023, I marked my 70th birthday, a milestone that invited deep reflection under the theme: “70 Years of Lessons & Experiences: Growth, Victories, and Becoming.”

My relationship with the love of my life, Dr. Maduka Nwakwesi, transcends the role of husband and wife. He is my friend and business partner, and this multi-dimensional connection has made our bond deeply fulfilling. Though we have faced challenges, God has always enabled us to emerge stronger and victorious together.

The Power of Inner Peace

Compassion flows naturally from inner peace. A person who is at peace with themselves, their environment, and God has the emotional capacity to think about others. Entering a relationship with someone who is internally at peace is one of the wisest decisions anyone can make.

I grew up in a stable, peaceful, monogamous home—an environment that shaped my understanding of love. My parents’ disagreements were brief, resolved quickly, and never eroded their respect for each other. This foundation instilled in me the confidence that I, too, could build a successful marriage.

Insecurity can be paralyzing. Statements such as “I don’t think you love me anymore” or “Do you still love me?”, when repeated frequently, can create a self-fulfilling prophecy that erodes emotional connection. Emotional dependency and obsession with marriage early in a relationship often hinder natural growth.

Strengthening relationships requires wisdom, intentional effort, emotional maturity, and a willingness to grow—together. As we move forward, we will explore how to manage the stresses that often root themselves in relationship difficulties.