Marriage: Things I've Learned

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We're twenty six months into this decades long adventure called marriage.

And what a ride it's been.

Here are some things I've learned.

Be very, very sure that the person you're marrying is the one you want seeing ALL sides of you. And then be willing to change yourself, without losing that spark that attracted your spouse to you, to better fit your spouse's needs.

If you have been dating for more than six months and you still don't know if you want to marry this person, WHY ARE YOU STILL DATING?!

On the flip side, if you're of marrying age after six months of dating and you do want to marry this person, WHERE IS THE RING?

When your spouse gets angry, don't assume that s/he is angry at you.

Remember that all the tough moments will pass. Don't spend extra time moping because of them. Get up, do something, and put a smile on your face!

Read/listen to informational books. Especially those about marriage and children. Also, for an all around lesson in history and marriage and child raising (what works and what does not), read the Bible. Also good for pick me ups and ideas for romancing your spouse.

Having children makes marriage much more fun. Especially if you continue to focus on each other and keep an eye on the kids.

Never put your child before your spouse, unless the child's life or health is in danger.

Don't be afraid to try new things, whether food or activity or movie or music genre, especially if your spouse enjoys it. Don't be afraid to have an actual opinion, either. Without hurting your spouse's feelings.

Don't stop dating your spouse. Keep up the romance, as if you were winning your spouse's heart all over again, and you will surely keep it.

Respect your husband, and follow him, without being critical, careless, or upset because this isn't what you wanted to do. Let him make mistakes, and help him achieve his goals, no matter how much effort that takes.

Say, "I love you", many times a day, and mean it every time.

Kiss, snuggle, laugh, tickle, goof off, and enjoy each other. Keep your marriage fun, and don't forget to be an example of what marriage really is, to your children. Forgive, cry, embrace, and have fun.

Don't focus on the past, and don't get caught up in working toward the future. Enjoy the present.
If your home rings with laughter and glows with joy, your lives will be all the better for it. Don't give up, and always find a reason to smile.

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