[warped]

I think the biggest problem is that too many people rush into marriage with no counseling, and don't even consider finding someone of the same religion, abstaining till marriage, etc. Yes, the feminist movement is probably responsible for much of this. I married someone I met at a teen rally at my church, we both abstained till marriage, and I'm approaching a tenth anniversary now, with two wonderful kids, no problems in the relationship, and loving life.

[Taxman]

I'm happy for you and your family. Hope you make it "til death do you part."

[Wondervixen]

I am completely embarassed at today's wives and the complete lack of scruples they possess. Sure, it's one thing to be brainless and fall for a brute with muscles BECAUSE he's a "Bad Boy" and therefore, a project to be changed, but when you luck out and land one (like mine) who is "broken-in" and treats you and the children like gold, you don't go tossing him back, sticking a knife in him, and twisting it every chance you get just to be a bitch.

If the husband isn't giving you a legitimate reason to grab up the kids and run for it and if he treats you well and with respect, it is YOUR DUTY as a woman and mother to stand by him through the poor times and weather them till the good ones return, not play horse changer in mid-stream.

Remember, you may not be as good as you THINK you are at choosing men the next time...Your ex MIGHT have been a stroke of luck you'll NEVER live to repeat!

[OldBlondBabe]

I agree with your remarks, but would add that too many people enter into marriage thinking that they're still entitled to the advantages of single life: nights out with the girls or guys, spending money on big ticket items without discussion with partner (usually on charge accounts) and having chidren without the emotional or financial means to support them. I married at 19, 26 years ago. The first 7-8 years were tough, we both made some dumb mistakes, but hung in there. Have three kids now, a great husband and a warm loving relationship that feels as comfortable as an old shoe and I know for a fact that my husband feels the same.

[FITZ]

I married someone I met at a teen rally at my church, we both abstained till marriage, and I'm approaching a tenth anniversary now, with two wonderful kids, no problems in the relationship, and loving life.

You're one of the smart ones who knew what qualities to look for in a woman. It sounds like you didn't try to meet a trophy type in some bar, you didn't pick the one who was the best in bed or just had the hottest looking body. It's all about choices and choosing carefully.

[gore3000]

I think the biggest problem is that too many people rush into marriage with no counseling, and don't even consider finding someone of the same religion, abstaining till marriage, etc.

I think you are correct to a great extent. The more the couple have in common from the start, the better the chances the marriage will last. Also late marriages, which is becoming more and more common, are bad. The two are already set in their ways and this will lead to more conflicts. Our society has almost made it a sin to marry young but growing older together insures a lasting relationship.

[lucky7]

Good for you. Praise God for folks like you.