Couples refuse to listen until it’s too late

I was most interested to read Howard Feldman’s insightful thoughts after the passing of his father in last week’s SA Jewish Report (23 October 2020), titled “That damn kittel”.

As a couples therapist, I’m often left wondering why those in a relationship so often refuse point-blank to listen to the advice or suggestion given by their partner or spouse. Yet, once they are no longer around to witness the benefits of their goodwill – or should someone else perhaps make the same suggestion – then they fall into line immediately.