Why has this marriage worked?

People have asked how it is we are still in love and together after many years of marriage. Thoughts:

46 years ago we were virtual strangers when we married. The biggest influence in my life had been my mother. My parents demonstrated their belief in marriage daily. Their priorities were: Love your spouse, love your children, do the best you can to provide the example.

So, I met him, loved him and promised to always have him first in my heart. He received this approach. He embraced it. I am first in his heart. We, as a team, put our kids first. This is not an old fashioned mind set – it is a successful mind set.

Our 46 years are comprised of accommodation, understanding, joys and sadness. We survived all because we survived together. When I am at my lowest he reaches a hand out with love. Things get better. When he is overwhelmed or feeling lost my hand is there to share all . Things get better. Heart breaking adversity is met together and our marriage grows stronger. Unspeakable joys come along and are better because we share them.

Aging

Guess when the time comes you realize most of your life is behind you, looking back is unavoidable. Some memories are as fresh as when they occurred while others must be dug out. One embedded in my soul is when he proposed (September -- 46 years ago).

HIM (down on one knee in his apt kitchen): Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?
ME: When?
HIM (puzzled look on his face): Spring?
ME: No
HIM: Christmas?
ME: No
HIM: Thanksgiving?
ME: No
HIM: OK. When?
ME: How about Saturday? (he proposed on Wednesday)
HIM: OK

We had dated for 5 weeks. He told his parents on Friday night and we were married on Saturday. Fate? Pre-destined? God's hand? I have no idea. But how fortunate to meet the love of your life and know it immediately. Looking back, looking forward -- I just want to be with him. Sappy ain't it? I don't really care.