"I DO?"

Marriage is the combining of two imperfect souls integrating into one with the purpose of having a mutual sense of values and common objectives. A happy marriage is one of the most important relationships two people can achieve, but it will not develop by chance or accident, it demands exerted effort and dedication. Marriage is the corner stone that bonds the family together and it requirers nourishment: physically, mentally and spiritually.  How we use our time and keep our lives in balance is fundamental to how we will perform in marriage and family environment. 

Mortal misunderstandings can make a great marriage miserable.  Leaning how to solve problems responsibly can eliminate disfunction and build strength. Success comes only through earnest efforts; similar to the harmony when orchestra members work together to form a beautiful melody.  Stability is developed when each partner minimizes personal demands and strives to maximize actions of loving selflessness.  I have watched many marriages fall apart because of selfishness or, "It's all about Me" syndrome. When two people come together in marriage or elect to bring children into this world, it's no longer about one individual.  It is about providing a healthy and safe environment for each family member.

Every marriage has trials and adversity.  Adversity creates humility. It allows us the opportunity to bend the ridged metal and to be molded into an amazing work of art.  Learn to adjust, do not allow the little things to become big things, always speak words of increase, demonstrate gratitude in thoughtful ways, forgive and forget (don't talk about the past - it's dead energy), constantly search for the goodness in your partner and work to create an atmosphere where the relationship can grow.  

It's important to live a life free from regrets, for it will never matter how much money you made, what kind of house you lived in or the car you drove. The rewards will come from creating a beautiful and magnificent outcome.  Remember, it's not about marrying the right person, it's about becoming the right partner!  When all else seems hopeless, apply love generously.  By Linda Sumner Urza, One fine day. 

1 Corinthians 13: ... love suffers long and is kind, love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not easily provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things; hopes all things, endures all things.