I can sometimes think that what goes on in my four walls affects, well, only my four walls. But when it comes to the relationship between a husband and wife, I know there are clearly cosmic repercussions.

Our sages taught that when there is a lack of harmony in the home of a Jewish couple, the altar itself sheds a tear. Peace in a Jewish home is not only a private matter, but a matter that is integral to the peace of the entire Jewish nation, and the altar is the central place which symbolizes such peace.

Thoughtstream: Today I will be gentle with my spouse, for the flutterings of world peace depend on me.

(Adapted from Likkutei Sichot, vol. 24, p. 467.)