Marriage advice -- from my Father
When I was a young guy at about the time of my wedding with my dear bride, Shirley, my great Father called me aside to offer me some advice.
He said, " Son, what do you think a key to sharing in a marriage might be?"
I dully replied, "Maybe, doing your share."
Dad said, "Some people say that a marriage is a 49% -- 51% arrangement with one spouse having control."
I nodded, as if I understood.
Dad continued, "that's wrong."
I smiled and said, "I guess you mean marriage is supposed to be a 50% -- 50% deal in which each partner contributes equally to the success of the union."
Dad smiled and said, "that formulation is wrong, too, son."
Puzzled, I said, "OK, Dad, so what's the secret in your opinion?"
Dad quietly said, "You know, Sam, in my experience a marriage works best as a 51% -- 51% sharing. You must always try to do more for your life partner than she is trying to do for you."
Another piece of sound advice that I've tried to follow these nearly 60 years of our marriage. I've not always succeeded but I've always tried to do what my dear Father tried to do.
This brief telling has been stored in my cache and brought out to share at propitious moments. I hope you find my Father's advice helpful, as I have. Be well -- SDC
