For one of our anniversaries, Gar gave me a framed work that included those cute pictures of  children all dressed up like young adults. The theme of this particular work was marriage, and besides the photos, it included “The 10 Commandments of a Happy Marriage.” No author is credited, and I “googled” the title and lines to find the writer. No luck.

To many, these statements may seem dated, but to old married folks, they ring true. Unselfishness lies at the heart of these commandments and at the heart of good marriages. The 10 are difficult to keep, but continuous effort brings forth the desired results ~ a lasting marriage filled with joy. What do you think?

The 10 Commandments of a Happy Marriage

1. Thou shalt always remember that thy marriage is a partnership between thee, thy spouse and the Lord. For in knowing this, thou wilt have the strength, courage, and determination to conquer all challenges that may come into thy marriage.
2. Thou shalt cleave unto thy spouse and let not thine eyes wander, nor do anything like unto it. For it is through fidelity and commitment that thou shalt find confidence and trust.
3. Thou shalt not be selfish with thy time, nor  with thy money, nor with anything else that is thine. For in doing this thou shalt avoid resentment and find harmony.
4. Thou shalt remember that thy parents are good, but need to give thee space in thy marriage. For it is through relying upon each other that communication and unity is formed.
5. Thou shalt always remember to call thy spouse sweetheart, honey, or whatever else makes them happy and to remember the little things. For it is through little acts of kindness that thou shalt find love and tenderness.
6. Thou shalt remember to always use kind words and cease to find fault with thy spouse. For in doing this, thou shalt find peace.
7. Thou shalt enjoy each other’s company and remember to date often. For it is in spending time together that one truly gets to know their spouse and find intimacy.
8. Thou shalt add the words “I’m sorry” to thy vocabulary and use them often. For in doing this, thou shalt melt down the barriers of anger and resentment and find mutual forgiveness.
9. Thou shalt recognize and acknowledge the desires, efforts and accomplishments of thy spouse. For in this thou shalt find appreciation and gratitude for one another.
10.  Thou shalt live within thy means and learn the difference between wants and needs. For in doing this thou shalt avoid needless stress and find contentment.