What makes for a happy, lasting marriage? According to Edward and Ella Chapman who this week celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, it is: ‘Love, respect and complete commitment to one another,’ Bev and Geoff Woodham who recently celebrated 40 years, say their secret to a long and loving marriage is ‘being great mates who share interests and enjoying life together.’
From my own point of view of over 40 years married, I’d say love, respect, and enjoying each other’s company come near the top of the list. Respect for the other person as they are without trying to change them into something else. Respect for their beliefs and values and the way their live their lives. Respect so that neither of you would do anything to endanger what you have.
Enjoying each other’s company is also essential. I listened to an acquaintance talk the other day and by the time she’d finished, it was as though her and her husband led two separate lives because they hardly saw each other. They were like ships passing in the night. How can you maintain a relationship with someone you hardly ever see? ‘He has his interests and I have mine,’ she said. It didn’t seem to bother her that they never connected. I wondered if it bothered him.
Even though Mick is retired and at home all day, I still am often in my study working and he is in his or he is in the garden but we still come together regularly for meals, for walking, playing tennis, sitting and chatting, playing a game, watching a movie, going to live theatre or watching footy or just having a day out relaxing and enjoying a picnic. Whatever we do we’re totally committed to spending the rest of our lives together and enjoying each day we have together.
When I asked Mick what makes for a happy lasting marriage his list included, love, understanding, forbearance, a sense of fun maybe even of the ridiculous. Now it’s over to you. What do you think makes for a happy lasting marriage?
Related blogs
How Does Your Temperament Impact on Your Marriage?
How to Get You Marriage in Better Shape