Why Marriage Works...

About a Marriage....

A couple of days ago, I wrote a FaceBook update that seemed to capture the imagination of lots of people - it had more comments, shares and likes than any other post I have done..

So I thought I'd expand on it a bit and release it as a Blog - I hope you like it.

Over the last few days I have seen messages and "updates" from a number of people who have decided that after XX years they are getting divorced...

The reasons they give are all credible and understandable; the outpouring of support and sympathy impressive with hugs and smileys abounding.

This made me wonder; are we the only people who have found a way to make our relationship work...?

Of course not, but the divorces, break ups and splits get much more publicity than they should. The silent majority that simply get on with having an amazing life with the one they love seem to go unheard, ignored and are even ridiculed for daring to stay together...

It's not for me to pass any comment on anyones relationship or attempt to sit in judgement concerning what othesr get up to; but I thought I should bring some balance to the situation.

So I thought I'd announce something else about a Marriage...

Lynn and I have been together since High School, were engaged for 7 years, and have been married for nearly 26 years. When we met we had no prospects, no money and very little opportunity - but we knew that the journey would simply be better if we went on it together.

Since then we have lived in 15 houses in three countries, on two continents, had two fabulous boys; Jonathan & Richard and continue to have about as much fun as anyone should be allowed to have.

As I am writing this, we are heading out for a Pizza at the local Italian in Medieval Metz in France on the German Border - not bad for two kids from the back end of the industrial midlands..

How do we do it...?

Simple...

1. We love each other and work at making sure we continue to do so. AT 17 we didn't know what love meant so we have made it up as we have gone along.

2. We promsied that we would stay together until death us do part - and we meant it. If it is broken we fix it - not replace it...

3. We laugh a lot and don't take things or ourselves too seriously, everything is shared and we fight for each other when we have to - and with each other if we need to.

4. We do everything together; including life, business, strip clubs, casinos and staying in strange hotels at the weekend.

5. We have one Rule and a Law that we always abide by;

Rule - never be apart for more than 16 hours at a time; unless one of us is at the Mother in Laws, then it's compulsory...

Law - look but don't touch; excludes all uniformed Firemen, Shakira and Nigella Lawson.
The Rule can be broken by agreement; the Law, however...

Now...

• Has every day been perfect...? Of course not, but most come pretty close...

• Do we fall out and argue sometimes...? Yes of course but Lynn usually wins...

• Are we soul mates who need each other for survival, and to make everything seem worthwhile...? You bet, life ends when we do...

• Are we more connected now than ever as the years fold our lives every closer together...? Absolutely...

So to all those married or long term relationship people whether straight, gay or just plain strange; congratulations; you are the unsung heroes who never get the press you deserve...

And if someone says the it's OK for us becasue we are "lucky" - I will send Lynn round to sort 'em out.
 
Unless it's a Fireman of course, or Shakira in which case...

That is all I have to say about that...

PS - Lynn Holland I love you... xxx 

Now can I have a......