The Blueprint for a Lasting Marriage: 23 Time-Tested Gems of Wisdom
Pune, 11th Oct 2023: Marriage is a journey, and like any journey, it comes with its ups and downs. But what truly makes a marriage thrive? How do couples navigate the complexities of married life while keeping their love alive? Over the years, people have shared their secrets to a strong, lasting marriage. Here are 23 invaluable pieces of advice from those who’ve walked the path of matrimony:
1. Love is a Commitment: Love is not just a feeling but a choice, a commitment you make to your partner, even when the going gets tough.
2. Answer the Call: Always answer the call from your spouse, and when you’re together, focus on each other, not your phone.
3. Make Time Together a Priority: Regular date nights are an investment in your relationship. Time is the currency of love.
4. Choose Friends Wisely: Surround yourselves with friends who support your marriage and distance yourselves from those who may tempt you to compromise your character.
5. Share Laughter: Laughter is the soundtrack of a strong marriage. Even in hard times, find moments to share joy.
6. Win Together: In an argument, there are no winners or losers; you either win together or lose together. Work as a team to find solutions.
7. Strength in Vulnerability: A strong marriage often features one partner being strong when the other is weak.
8. Prioritize Intimacy: A strong marriage needs more than sex, but intimacy is a crucial component.
9. 100/100: Marriage isn’t about a 50/50 split; it’s about both partners giving 100%.
10. Give Your Best:* Give your best to each other, not your leftovers after catering to everyone else.
*11. Embrace Uniqueness: Your marriage is unique, so don’t compare it to others.
12. Don’t Pause Marriage: Don’t put your marriage on hold while raising kids; you may end up with an empty nest and an empty marriage.
13. No Secrets: Secrecy is the enemy of intimacy; never keep secrets.
14. Honesty Builds Trust: Lies break trust, and trust is the bedrock of a strong marriage.
15. Admit Mistakes: When you make a mistake, admit it and seek forgiveness.
16. Instant Forgiveness: When your partner breaks your trust, offer instant forgiveness.
17. Patience is Key: Be patient with each other; your spouse is more important than your schedule.
18. Model Love: Be a role model; show your children how to be a loving spouse.
19. Be the Encourager: Encourage your spouse, don’t criticize them. Be the one who wipes away their tears.
20. Keep Private Matters Private: Never talk negatively about your spouse to others or vent about them online.
21. Wear the Ring: Wear your wedding ring; it symbolizes your commitment.
22. Choose Silence Over Cruelty: When faced with the choice of saying something mean, choose silence.
23. Divorce is Not an Option: Always remember that a “perfect marriage” is just two imperfect people who refuse to give up on each other.
In the end, a strong and lasting marriage is built on love, commitment, trust, and a shared journey. These nuggets of wisdom are the bricks that construct the foundation of a beautiful and enduring partnership. They remind us that a successful marriage is not a destination but a fulfilling and lifelong voyage, where love, respect, and understanding are the compass that guides the way.