Dooley Noted: 11/18/2014
She was 15 when they met and started dating.
He promised to take care of her.
She promised to stand by him.
In a world of broken promises, they never broke theirs.
Today is the 47th anniversary of the day they wed.
She was 18. He was 26.
People expressed doubt to them that they’d last.
But they have.
I have watched their marriage for 36 years.
I have a strong understanding of how a marriage works.
Some key points I’ve noticed:
1. Forgiveness is crucial. People make mistakes.
2. If you’re going to swear in front of God, family, and country to stick by someone, you’d better pony up.
3. People often state not to mix business with pleasure, but that’s exactly what marriage is. Be ready to share everything you earn.
4. On that day in 1967, my parents had no clue of the depths of “for better or worse.” And “worse” is cancer. But they stuck together through a tough 2013 to ride out cancer.
5. If your partner has a habit, it’s likely you’ll pick it up. From smoking to Cardinals baseball, this habit formation travels in both healthy and unhealthy directions.
6. Some get married to have kids. Some get married and get surprised by kids. Either way, those kids tend to unify a marriage. But don’t have kids to stay unified – because kids move away.
7. Money comes and goes. Plan for it, but don’t forget to enjoy time together with it. And don’t fight over it.
8. Have the chores you both do well, and don’t expect the other to do yours.
9. Never cheat.
10. Marriage is a job with many blessings. But it’s indeed a job. Do good work.
I’ll keep watching and learning, Ma and Pa.
Nice job.
As always, it’s your call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley