Longevity

I may be an unusual 28 year old in that all 4 of my grandparents are still living. I have suddenly become reminded of both of their wedding anniversaries in the span of about a week. One set of grandparents is going on a cruise this August to celebrate 60 years of marriage. The other set will celebrate 63 years this year. So just in my grandparents alone, over a dozen decades of marriage is represented. It makes me smile to think about their commitment to one another. In the midst of our 50% divorce rate, and common belief that marriage is really just an extended dating relationship- easy to call off when it becomes tiresome or boring or difficult. So what are the keys to a long lasting marriage? I think I have a few ideas about it. First of all, never date someone that you couldn't marry- it's a waste of time, or you'll end up marrying anyway even though you knew all along this person and you have serious conflicts. Second, really know the person you are marrying and understand that they aren't going to change much. Third, realize that you aren't always going to "feel" in love with this person because love takes work...it isn't magic. This is how I can know for sure that my marriage with Cody will last. And it sure is a good feeling, never having to worry or feel insecure about our relationship because we both agree about the above principles.