The topic of marriage has been in the media lately as Illinois became the 15th state to legalize same sex marriage. It will be signed into law by the end of the month. Every November I reflect fondly on my wedding to my husband. Today is our fifth anniversary. It was such a special time that I love to revisit in my mind often.
Yesterday I read a blog post that was a reminder for any couple, whether newlywed or long-time married. Although the blogger shared advice that he received that I would not agree with, his point about thinking about your partner’s needs resonated with me. So often in my marriage, I am tempted to do things my way and I expect my husband to work around it. And because I trust him, I am comfortable expressing my needs and my wants. Hard to admit it, but it is a lot of me, me, me.
So, to those who are planning to get married and those who have been married, how do you make your marriage about the person you love? What concrete ways do you demonstrate your love and commitment?
Elizabeth McBride is director for intergenerational programs and editor of Café.
Photo courtesy of Elizabeth McBride.