What Drew Us To Each Other

Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga

Marriage is a lifetime commitment, and as such, it demands meaningful deliberateness before making that solemn vow. Life itself is a journey fraught with ups and downs, treacherous paths, and unpredictable challenges. You need someone who can stand by your side when the “Elephants confront” – when life’s overwhelming difficulties come knocking.

If you never anticipate trouble, the initial spark that drew you together will likely diminish when faced with the inevitable challenges. That’s why it’s crucial to identify and nurture the lasting qualities that will sustain a lifetime marriage.

The Lasting Qualities of a Sustainable Marriage

1. Common Purpose: A shared vision, values, and goals that unite you. Besides physical attraction, it’s essential to be convinced that your focus is on one thing. Divergent goals can lead to a fractured relationship.

2. Resilience: The ability to navigate life’s ups and downs together. A supportive partner can help you rise again when you’re down. Compliment each other’s strengths and weaknesses to build a stronger bond.

3. Communication Skills: Effective dialogue, active listening, and empathy. Communication can help you see things from different perspectives. Take the lead when necessary, and don’t give up on important conversations.

4. Hard Work: A willingness to put in effort to overcome obstacles. Execution is key after agreeing on a plan. Work together to provide for each other’s needs.

5. Transparency: Openness, honesty, and trust in all aspects of your relationship. Share your joys and struggles with each other, and be accountable for your actions.

6. Commercial Skills/Income: Financial stability, security, and a shared understanding of managing resources. Developing commercial skills can provide the necessary resources to turn your vision into reality.

Conclusion:

A successful marriage requires more than just initial attraction. It demands a deep understanding of each other’s strengths, weaknesses, and values. By cultivating common purpose, resilience, effective communication, hard work, transparency, and commercial skills, couples can build a strong foundation for a lifetime of love, trust, and mutual support. Remember, a lasting marriage is not just about finding the right person, but also about becoming the right partner.

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