This is a guest post by April who writes for Normal Mormons.

As everyone knows, the carnal nature of humans is unquestionable. The very thing that tends to first attract us to our spouse is the same thing that gets us in trouble after marriage. The phenomenon known as “wandering eyes” can be a real problem for many couples. For both the men and women. However, in American culture it seems that men tend to be the ones who are constantly on trial for this offense. From a simple glance at an attractive woman, to more serious and sometimes dangerous physical advances – there are always repercussions for activity like this. A good husband knows better.

Some wives don’t mind when their husbands comment on how attractive a woman is. Many of us even ask our husbands the classic question like, “Do you think she’s pretty?” - which, as every man knows, can be a land mine. Other wives tend to be quite jealous or set strict boundaries on what is, and is not appropriate.

It’s a sign of respect to make a conscious effort NOT to look at other women. It shows that you really love your wife. Even though you notice said “hot blonde in the red dress” doesn’t mean you need to rubberneck as she walks by your table.

“Looking” is also not the only offense made by husbands. Thinking about other women is even worse. It’s just as bad as looking at pornography.

Something my husband will sometimes do is “joke.” He’ll get caught looking at a girl, then say “Oh I was just joking – I just wanted to see what you would do.” Or one of his friends will report that he checked out some chick while they were hanging out, and he will say “I was just kidding around!” He now knows this is not okay. Just because you’re joking, or kidding doesn’t take away the fact that you were staring at someone in a sexual way.

So how do you be a good husband when it comes to looking at other women? Have open communication with your wife! Ask her what is okay and what isn’t. You’ll never know if you don’t ask, and she will never be happy if you are stepping across that line. If she says she never wants you to look at any women like that, take her seriously. Just because you are a “man” doesn’t mean you have an excuse to act like a barbarian. Respect your wife’s desires when she asks you not to look. It’s a small price to pay for marital happiness. If you can’t bear the thought of diverting your eyes, be single.
Image by Veruka Dolls.