Lesson 1: The “Newlywed” season is not always fun. This was a rude awakening for me as life threw George and I a very tough challenge early on in our marriage. I expected to be in a “honeymoon” phase for at least our first year. After one month of being married, my husband was faced with a major health challenge that resulted in multiple hospital stays, numerous medical tests and surgerical procedures. Our vows were put to the test immediately. Who knew that we’d be faced with the test of loving someone through sickness and health so early on. I entered our marriage with the expectation that we would probably have some challenges to overcome later in life, maybe after 30 years of marriage, not after 30 days. Through it all, even though the season was challenging, we’ve become closer than ever. My strength was tested as a caregiver and his physical strength was tested after being blindsided with new health challenges. This season is still ongoing, and we’ve learned to love each other through it all and depend on God for his strength.
Lesson 2: Our family unit comes first. God is first in our lives, and after that, we put each other first. Work, family, friends and hobbies all come second to making our marriage a priority.
Lesson 3: The money talks are necessary. Money is one of the leading cause of divorce. George and I have agreed on a financial plan and budget that we stick to monthly. Being responsible with money is hard for me at times because I love to shop and eat out. Thank God I married a financial advisor to keep us on track!
Lesson 4: We give love and receive love differently. The 5 love languages book taught me that George and I prefer to receive love in different ways. I feel loved when he engages in meaningful moments with me. I’m also a touchy feely person that desires physical touch all the time. George feels most loved through acts of service. If I choose to only love him in the way that I want to be loved, and I ignore his love language, we get nowhere.
Lesson 5: Communicate and discuss everything. We have conversations daily about our plans, dreams, feelings, family, and frustrations. This leaves no room for miscommunication. I’ve learned to not assume things and to just ask. Not all coversations are going to be fun, but they are necessary. Great communication helps us understand each other better and provides clarity.
What are some of the marriage lessons that you’ve learned ?
This is perfection, simple and to the point! You guys are a inspiration! Thanks for being transparent!
Thx for reading! 🙂
Learn to choose your battles…not every situation deserves an argument because you don’t agree, sometimes you just gotta let it go and move on! Lesson learned!
Amen! Thanks for sharing your marriage advice 😉
I LOVE that you shared this with us Maj! Number four is so DEEP. 80% of people in relationships don’t know this or understand this. You have to know how your partner needs to be loved. Very insightful. Also, knowing how to communicate the difficult things without it turning into an argument that goes no where is hard to do for most people. But your so right, communication about Everything is so important to be on one accord. Again, thanks for sharing this with us! Love ya!
Thanks so much for reading Keesha! So happy to hear that you enjoyed the post 🙂
This was excellent advice! So often marriage is romanticized and portrayed to be a magical ride with no bumps. I also agree with number 4. It’s imperative that you know how to love your partner in a way that they receive it; actually this can even be applied to interactions with family as well. THANK YOU FOR BEING HONEST!
I agree with you 100%. The rules for #4 can be applied to any relationship….family, friends, coworkers, etc. Thanks for reading and sharing your thoughts.
Absolutely love this!! This is such amazing advice that everyone may not think about considering when going into a marriage. Definitely something that I will take note of for the future. Thanks so much for sharing and being transparent! 🙂
Aww, thats awesome Chris! Luv ya and thanks for leaving your thoughts and feedback.
Marriage is an amazing concept created by God to provide companionship on so many levels. I honestly do not know how people without God in their lives do it. You are so special young lady and this article is strong, timely, and so wise beyond your "married" years. Today we celebrate 17 amazing years powered by God and I can tell you that everything you said above is spot on! Can’t wait to reat your next installment when it comes! Love you so much!
Wow 17 years!!! That’s amazing 🙂 Luv ya and thanks for reading.