The Man You Always Wanted Is the One You Already Have

Paula came to our church in Reno and spoke about her book and I had just recently gotten married for my first time... I had been going thru a challenge with my husbands personality and my personality....when I ordered the book and started to read about the four temperaments - it just clicked and wow I was just amazed - I am so thankful that Paula was able to use the wonderful gift that God gave her of writing and use it to help marriages...Thank you Paula

Recycling your marriage is a novel concept in this day of wide-ranging disposables; everything from diapers to dinner plates are designed to be tossed in the trash. The frequency with which some people change spouses indicates that many have extended that idea to relationships as well. And, if we personally haven't, then we've become very accepting of those who do, which also helps to promote it. This is not to say that divorce is never acceptable --- merely that there may be other alternatives when a relationship seems "used up." Paula Friedrichsen is a freelance writer who speaks at women's retreats and conferences. Her insights and commentaries can be heard on Christian radio and television. Now she has taken her experiences and put together an inspiring self-help book that may begin to help reverse the pervasive trend of divorce-as-the-solution-to-relationship-problems. The author writes from the heart of a woman who has been transformed by the Grace of God. During the early years of her marriage, Paula and her husband Jeff had moved to a new town. Jeff was not a Christian at the time, so Paula went to church by herself and soon got caught up in its activities and the teachings of its dynamic pastor. Need I say more? The closer she got to the pastor through services and projects, the further away she grew from her husband. The better the pastor looked, the worse her husband looked by comparison. While the "affair" was never consummated, its effects were far-reaching. The pastor was asked to relocate, and the damage done to the church was, in many ways, irreparable. As a result of this experience, Paula came away with many truths, and these have formed the framework for this exciting little book. Sometimes, an author's list of truths may sound obvious, and often it's because we have heard them before but have never incorporated them into our own thinking. The Biblical truths that include forgiveness, honesty, trust and love are familiar, yet many continue to struggle with them. Included among the interesting chapters is a segment on the Four Temperaments. This concept dates back to Hippocrates, who attempted to explain human behavior with his theory of four distinct personality types. It remains a great tool in helping us to understand and appreciate the differences in the personalities among us. Rather than dwelling on our mate's weakness, we can begin to focus on his/her corresponding strength. Paula Friedrichsen has tackled a distressing problem that faces believers as well as society in general. Through her transparency and clearly stated insights, she has provided a tool for those who would choose to save their marriage rather than abandon it at the first sign of "wear and tear." THE MAN YOU ALWAYS WANTED is full of helpful encouragement and will provide hope to those who may be growing cold toward their marriage. --- Reviewed by Maggie Harding

Paula Friedrichsen has captured the reality of marriage with sincerity and humor, yet not 'sugar-coating' it with 'fluff.' The reality is...marriage is hard work, and although we love our husbands (most of the time:)) it's not always 'happily ever after' the next day. But the fairy-tale ending can be a reality with knowing our husbands, ourselves, and working at this thing called marriage every day. And you know what? As Paula writes so beautifully...it's worth it!

I just finished this book and have to admit that of all the books on marriage I have read, this one has some of the most Godly answers and helpful advice for even a healthy relationship. If any woman wants to improve their marriage, this book is a must have. This one should be on everyone's bridal shower gift list. I wish I would have read this book when I was first married, I could have been a lot happier a lot sooner! Even Dr. Laura would enjoy this one.

I first heard about this book on a Christian talk radio show. I am not a reader, however the titled intrigued me. I am a recent newlywed and was struggling to adjust to my new role as a wife, life, and role within the marriage. The struggle truly was a fight within myself to be the best wife, FAST! What I gained from the book was that being a "perfect wife" is a lifetime process. Everything Paula talks about in the book is real life "stuff" that every woman encounters on a daily basis so you can really relate to all the stories. If you want to have a successful, happy, and loving marriage, I would highly recommend you read this book. I carry it in my purse to read some of my favorite passages. One last thing, at the back of the book is the author's personal email. After I finished reading the book I emailed Paula and she replied back with amazing advice that I will cherish forever! Thanks Paula for a wonderful book.