Love must be self-respecting

Author: James Dobson (USA)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-01-01
Features: Almost everyone is now saying "Love must be (self-esteem)." This phrase can be seen or heard everywhere we go. Over the past few months, inquisitive journalists, TV news anchors, and street preachers have all been repeating this line. The meaning of "love must be" varies from person to person. In January 1995, Democratic Representative Marcy Kaptur from Ohio quoted this phrase while speaking against the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in the House of Representatives. Later, Democratic Representative Luis Gutierrez from Illinois also used it in his proposal for retroactive limits on the term of office for his Republican opponent. In fact, a researcher recently found that in the records of the 104th Congress, the phrase "love must be" was mentioned more than 100 times. And that's just the beginning. But before this expression quickly became a common saying among Americans, let us remember this fact: as early as 1983, Dr. James Dobson introduced this concept for the first time in his landmark book on marriage and parenting, "Love Must Be." He also elaborated on this concept: that mature love relationships should be built on mutual respect and genuine responsibility. Few books have received as much praise and received as many emails from fans as "Love Must Be." The book has been beloved for many years and has ranked among the top few on bestseller lists for over a decade, winning the Gold Award from the ECPA and saving countless marriages and changing the lives of many. Its insightful analysis and wise advice have moved thousands of men, women, and children, many of whom have written to express their positive reviews of the book. In a text message to Dr. Dobson, one grateful reader wrote, "The principles you've proposed are completely right. My life is proof!" Another said, "My life will turn a new page from now on." A third reader excitedly commented, "Your book saved my marriage and my life." The "Family Research Council" office has received letters from around the world, expressing readers' heartfelt gratitude for the new perspective and context on life that Dr. Dobson's book has given them. Today, the international organization focused on family issues—"Family Research Council," founded by Dr. Dobson—reaches millions of listeners weekly through its radio program broadcast on 1,951 stations in the United States and Canada, as well as another 2,000 stations worldwide. Through the efforts of approximately 1,200 male and female employees, "Family Research Council" has registered over 60 independent branches, publishes 10 magazines, and distributes 130,000 tapes each month, while also publishing an average of 50 books annually each year. (In 2004, the radio program of "Family Research Council" had over 200 million listeners and was broadcast on 7,500 radio stations. The numbers listed by the preface author are from that time—the editor)
A strong faith is the core of these outstanding works and all areas of the "Family Research Council." As a registered psychologist and former pediatric professor at the University of Southern California, Dr. Dobson has witnessed the pressures of modern life firsthand and has applied his years of experience to analyzing and treating the causes of American problems. During the terms of three presidents, he served on numerous joint groups and committees, and his many writings, series, and daily radio programs have helped spark discussions on family issues in the United States and led the debate on "family values." We are delighted to introduce the new edition of "Love Must Be" to readers. This is not only a celebration of Dr. Dobson's success over the years but also, we know, the love and blessings of God that flow through his book, along with the wisdom and advice he offers, will save more marriages and lives in the days to come. This book is dedicated to every man and woman who has once relied on their husband or wife for everything but has been rejected and hurt. May this book begin the healing journey for those who have been wounded. The methods it provides will help those who have been rejected to live better for themselves while being tolerant of others, for tolerance brings peace.