What makes a marriage stand? What makes it fall? Why do some suddenly end and how do some thrive through turbulent years?
How does young love lose romance and till-death-do-us-part promises? Why is compromise and bargaining more the norm than unconditional love? How does reality and the distracting humdrum of bills, evening meals and meaningless chasing of the wind destroy the intimacy and excitement of love?
I now recall those tests we, as singles, often place on suitors (real and imagined!). Be it the proper education, career, family, church, looks, tastes or shoes, we stack partners against some measuring stick. Now as a married woman, I realise there are greater demands on me, on us. Will we pass the trials of life, health, work, kids, in-laws, intimacy, money… among so many other things. Sometimes we place more importance on a driving test, or a work review than on preparing for the challenges – of married life.
On this special island getaway on Valentine’s Day, you have encouraged me not to falter during testing times.
[A time for tests, and a time for rest. Stradbroke Island, February 2012; Posted from http://lightbox.com]
