If these three words in succession means anything to you, you likely watch the highest rated show on cable television that absolutely no one admits to watching. And what is that show? WWE RAW. Yes, Pro Wrestling. And before you wonder or ask, yes I know its fake and yes I still watch and enjoy it. Just in case that bothers you, realize that most of the shows you enjoy are fake also.
However I did not write this to defend wrestling (it may not even deserve such a defense). I write because the news broke today that John Cena, the most recognizable name in Pro Wrestling today, has filed for divorce from his wife. His promotional t-shirts always say somewhere on them “Hustle. Loyalty. Respect.†This divorce though seems stand in opposition to these words which he claims mark his life.
And from the little I know of him from reading about his life, he does display these values in his professional life. He puts all of his effort into his work and does it with urgency. Hustle. He remains in a business that is often hard on one’s life and body. Loyalty. He seems to treat fans and those in need well (he is one of the most prolific wish granters the Make-A-Wish organization has). Respect.
Sadly, in filing for divorce, he shows something all too common in our day. The same values with which people live and find success in their professional life they are often not willing to apply at home. They will work themselves to death for the sake of their career but give up easily on their marriages and family. I do not know the specifics of why John Cena filed for divorce, but this I do know. Any marriage can be strengthened by the application of these three things.
Hustle. Make your marriage and family a priority. Issues that come up in that realm must be met with energy and urgency. Problems left to fester are deadly to marriage.
Loyalty. Take your vows seriously. This is the one you took for better, for worse, for life. Do not entertain other options. Remain dedicated even when the marriage is hard.
Respect. Treat your spouse well. Husbands love your wife. Wife respect your husbands. Treat them as fellow heirs with you of eternal life. Know that they need your support, your love, and your forgiveness.
Hustle. Loyalty. Respect. They are values that are laudable to any calling in life. And it seems to me that many apply them vigorously in their life outside of the home. May we also apply them at home. Our marriages and family depend on it.
