49 Years of Marriage - It has been worth it!

When I mentioned to a worker at the hospital that we would soon be celebrating our 49th wedding anniversary, she was amazed. She told me that she had all ready made two "mistakes" and was now in another relationship. As we discussed how we were committed to working out our marriage and united in our goals, she mentioned her doubts on her current relationship. He was too permissive with her two children (13 year old boy and 7 year old girl). I told her how that was pretty normal for most couples. One might allow the children to have more experiences out in the world (usually the man), while the other was more protective of the children (usually the woman). We discussed how you had to talk about these differences and work out a balance that would be best for the children at their current age. 

She seemed doubtful, then stated the real reason she was thinking of leaving this relationship-- "it takes too much work".  I replied, "but it is worth it!"  She didn't seem very convinced. Right now she, as a very attractive young woman, could easily find another "partner".  I thought about how it will not always be so easy for her. I also wondered at the pain she was inflicting on these men in her life. I wondered about her just trying to find the "right man" who was so "perfect" that their relationship didn't require any effort or need them to change and grow. I don't think there are "perfect" people out there to find. If there was, they sure wouldn't want to marry an imperfect person like me. 

I also thought about how I was willing to pay the price and now I have a husband who loves me even with thinning hair, and through cancer treatments. He is always there supporting and loving me. Yes, it has taken 49 years of constant effort of working on our marriage, but it truly is worth it!

(my husband and I spring 2021 ill with cancer;  our family in 1977)