The following tips came from my in-laws, Bob and Jeanne. They celebrated their 50th anniversary recently, so if anyone knows how to make a marriage work, they do. Here are their suggestions, in their own words:
Our Secrets for a Successful Marriage:
1. Love each other with no boundaries.
2. Always show respect for the other person's views and ideas.
3. Always be polite. (Does it hurt to say please, thank you, may I, and so on to the one you love the most in the world?)
4. We go to bed every night with a kiss and our arms around each other.
5. While raising children--NEVER let them come between you. Don't be stupid enough to ask a child "What did your mother/father say?" Do you really expect them to tell you? Always check with your spouse as to those decisions, even if it means a phone call.
6. Pool your money with each other--it should always be "ours" never mine or yours. That way you can truly "budget". If you always hoard your "own" money you can hardly call it a partnership. One person can handle the bills but both should always know what is in any "accounts." So they can make knowledgeable decisions together.
7. Be willing to help each other with "chores" no matter what they are. There should be nothing that is strictly "women's work or men's work."
One thing they didn't mention that I've observed about them over the years, is that they keep a sense of humor and laugh a lot. That makes a big difference.
Congratulations, Bob and Jeanne, on 50 years of loving partnership. I love you both.
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