No one knows me like my husband does. No one knows him as well as I do either. It's the kind of knowing someone that comes with years of investment in the every day and small details of life together. We definitely have had our share of conflict, but we've learned to navigate through the differences and keep it together. I know that we can support each other through whatever life brings us, and I think that the friendship and bond that we have created is what has helped us to hold on when times are tough.
John Gottman, a well known relationship expert and author of The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work, says that "happy marriages are based on a deep friendship that is founded upon a mutual respect and enjoyment of each other's company. These couples tend to know each other intimately and they are very familiar with each others likes, dislikes, personality quirks, hopes and dreams. They have an abiding regard for each other and express fondness not just in the big ways but also in small gestures day in and day out."
Adam and Eve were also good examples of marital partners and we would do well to pattern our lives after them. Be compassionate, forgiving, and supportive. Always stick together.
My husband does a lot to lessen my burdens. He will send me to bed when I'm extra tired, or offer to make dinner when he knows I have a lot of work to do. He pulls the covers down at night before I get into bed and always holds the door open for me. These and many other acts of service let me know that he is thinking of me and cares about me. As our children grow and eventually leave the house to start their own lives, I am hopeful that my husband and I will have built a strong enough foundation in friendship that we can grow old together.
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