The Art of Marriage

I recently came across a poem entitled "The Art of Marriage", written by Wilfred Peterson. While reading through the words, a very distinct picture of my grandparents developed in my mind. They've been happily married for 62 years (going on 63 in July!) and their love has only grown over the decades. I am so blessed to have them in my life, and so lucky to experience their example as an illustration of what a successful and fulfilling marriage entails. Although they've faced many trials and tribulations along the way they've survived all of it together, through good times and bad. I can only pray that Shep's and my marriage mirrors the love and devotion my grandparents have shown one another over the years.

After reflecting on the meaning of these words, I am absolutely looking forward to living these sentiments with Shep throughout the rest of our lives.

The Art of Marriage
~ Wilferd Peterson

The little things are the big things.
It is never being too old to hold hands.
It is remembering to say, “I love you” at least once a day.

It is never going to sleep angry.
It is at no time taking the other for granted;
the courtship should not end with the honeymoon,
it should continue through all the years.

It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives.
It is standing together facing the world.
It is forming a circle of love that gathers in the whole family.
It is doing things for each other,
not in the attitude of duty or sacrifice,
but in the spirit of joy.

It is speaking words of appreciation,
and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways.
It is not expecting the husband to wear a halo
or the wife to have the wings of an angel.
It is not looking for perfection in each other.

It is cultivating flexibility, patience,
understanding and a sense of humor.
It is having the capacity to forgive and forget.
It is giving each other an atmosphere
in which each can grow.

It is finding room for the things of the Spirit.
It is a common search for the good and the beautiful.
It is establishing a relationship in which
the independence is equal, dependence is mutual,
and the obligation is reciprocal.

It is not only marrying the right partner,
it is BEING the right partner.
This is “The Art of Marriage”.