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Oh… that sweet happily ever after! When you have butterflies in your stomach, and love is in the air as if you were living in a James Blunt music video. Well, actually, people who have lived a married life at some point in their lives, or still do, unanimously agree on the fact that this is not what marriage is about.

Unlike falling in love, living the married life takes teamwork, commitment and a lot of conforming. Maybe even more than you were willing to give when you were single. So hey, it’s hard, but it’s also worth it. This thread from the Ask Men subreddit shows exactly that.

“What random marriage advice sounded absurd but was actually spot-on helpful?” someone asked, sparking an illuminating thread about this challenging yet very rewarding game called life: marriage edition.

#1

30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On Dad said “Be kind even if you’re not feeling it. Maybe *especially* if you’re not feeling it.”

semantician , Jonathan Cooper Report

RELATED:
    #2

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On Most of the time you spend together is going to be non-sexual, so the most important thing is to be best friends. Otherwise, it won't last.

    BOS_to_HNL , Hunter Newton Report

    Snowfoxrox
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I love having a goofy fun time with my husband. He is my best friend and we have a lot of fun!! Highly recommend this!

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    #3

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On Marry him for who he is. Not his potential.

    There-is-No-Beyond , Olivia Bauso Report

    Snowfoxrox
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This needs to be voted to the top!!! Don't ever stay with someone because of who think they *could* become...Stay with them because you adore who they are at that moment!!

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    #4

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On The point of arguing is not to win. It's to understand where they’re coming from and why this issue matters to them.

    gaygirl98 , Alex Green Report

    Lisa H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Also, let the other person finish their thought before talking, otherwise you will likely miss their point and make the argument worse.

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    #5

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On It's totally OK to sleep in separate beds...or even separate rooms if that's what works for you. I am not going to be a good partner if I only get four hours of sleep because I was listening to him snore all night, or if jobs require different sleeping schedules and you take a while to get to sleep

    Educational-Candy-17 , Jp Valery Report

    Mad Dragon
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My husband sleeps in the living room because he has a super-loud C-PAP machine. It blows air into my face every time he moves. He’s waiting for a replacement that is quieter, but in the meantime, I have to get some sleep!

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    #6

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On Be honest. Don't lie to your partner.

    Mikeydeeluxe , Liza Summer Report

    Juan Ghote
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Never assume - Communicate. This means active listening to respect your partner. Married 30+ years. Both my partner and I come from horribly broken backgrounds.

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    #7

    Clean up after yourself for God's sake.

    jevole Report

    #8

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On Have separate duvets or blankets on the same bed. I can wrap myself up nice and snug, and she can move around all night without bothering me.

    ColonialSpore , Annie Spratt Report

    #9

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On It's ok to go to bed angry. We've always been told not to go to bed angry but sometimes a night of sleep can change your perspective and help with resolution.

    Virtual-Cupcake-1510 , Christian Erfurt Report

    RoksieK
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sometimes you need to take time to cool off which would prevent further escalation

    Kelly Richards
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited)

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    I am making $92 an hour working from home. i was greatly surprised at the same time as my neighbour advised me she changed into averaging $ninety five however I see the way it works now. I experience mass freedom now that I'm my non-public boss. that is what I do.. Www.incomehd.com

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    lenka
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think its fine to go to bed angry as long you communicate what’s happening in your head. I.e. I am really angry and I need to sleep on this. We can talk about it tomorrow.

    Mrs. Jan Glass
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Exactly. More than once, we've said "I need to sleep on this" or "We need to pause and come back tomorrow with clearer heads." Breaks are helpful.

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    Tami
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Just don't forget that goodnight kiss before you turn out the light.

    Carolyn T. Smythe
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My parents agreed to never, NEVER go to bed angry. The reason? Because you never know if one of you might die during the night because of stress from the argument. And the other person will NEVER have been able to say "I'm sorry" or "I love you" ever again. Can you imagine the guilt that the spouse would have for the rest of their lives?!? My parents did argue sometimes over the years, but that rule was precious and they abided by it. They were married for nearly 30 years before my Mom passed away in her sleep. No regrets of any arguments put to rest before bed. No regrets. Just love and understanding.🥰

    Jay Son
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Solid advice. I once had a small argument with my father a few days before he passed away. We talked it out and made up before he did pass, but till this day (it's been 17 years now) it still nags me greatly that I had that argument so close to his passing. I don't think I'll ever forget, and I can only imagine how I'd feel if I had an argument with a loved one who dies before being able to make up.

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    Shane S
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    People still perpetuate the myth that it’s not ok to go to bed angry. It’s totally ok.

    Caligirl20
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Seriously it is. I can't tell you how many times in the last 20 years we have gone to sleep angry only to wake up realizing that whatever the issue was wasn't even a big deal to begin with.

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    Kathryn Baylis
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Even if one of you sleeps in a spare room or on the sofa. We often get irritable when we’re tired, which could’ve been the catalyst of the argument. Depending on the subject of the argument, two well-rested people can quite often realize it was stupid (if it was, that is), and proceed to apologize to each other, then kiss and make up.

    Nia Loves Art
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I can’t go to bed if I’m angry, or if I think someone’s angry at me. I always need to resolve things as soon as possible for my mental health.

    Blackstone
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We have a word we say that basically means, I'm mad, but we're okay and I love you. So we can reassure one another that we'll get through this, without forcing ourselves to finish hashing something out if we aren't in a good position to discuss it. It's helped a lot just being able to know the love is there even while we are upset.

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    Mika N
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think as long as there's an understanding that "we need time to rest and cool off, we'll continue later when we're in a better place." It is good I think not to stonewall and shut someone out, and go to bed like that, like you're trying to punish them with a disturbed night of sleep.

    Nikki Hilton
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This! There's no point in continuing to argue when you're tired and frustrated. No good resolution comes out.

    C W
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    True. Some issues seem so much worse at night.

    Illustrious G
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes!! I believed- and staunchly abided by- the “don’t go to bed angry” rule for far too long, through all my 20’s and into my 30’s. There would be nights that I’d stay up far too late to try to resolve things with my then-partner, not realizing that our exhaustion levels were making things far more difficult to work out. As many here have already said, it’s ok to go to bed angry. Things often look much different after some well-needed rest!

    Aela Klassen
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    not sure if this on the list, but even if you do go to bed angry, let them know you still love them, super important

    Cat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sometimes you get so angry bc you're TIRED & it makes everything worse. Sometimes sleep is the answer.

    Blackstone
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Seriously. Everything feels worse at night. Early on in our dating we came up with a "safe word", not for sex, but for arguing. We say the word and it means, "I'm mad right now, but we're okay and I still love you." If the other person replies it back, we're good. If they don't reply back, we know we need to attend to the issue immediately (maybe ahs happened once in 15 years). It's been a game changer for our whole marriage, just being able to check-in that we are still in each other's corner and still love and support one another even when we feel angry. It lets us table discussions without feeling anxious about damaging our relationship.

    thEBOrdeSTpaNDA
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    'We used to never go to bed angry; But it's all we ever do lately; And you're turning away like you hate me; Do you hate me? Do you hate me?' (guess the song)

    Dee Tag
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The Bible says don't go to bed angry. Studies have shown resentment damages your heart and blood vessels. You die earlier than you should. Just say sorry and be done with it.

    Blackstone
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It says don't let the sun go down on your anger. This is only my opinion, but I feel like this means, don't let your anger fester and turn into resentment, not a literal, don't go to sleep angry. I think it's perfectly okay to go to sleep without coming to an agreement on something, but it's important to check in with each other and make sure you're each okay before tabling the issue.

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    KimTx ‍️
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If I am upset and can sleep... the issue is not that important. If I cannot sleep.... a discussion is needed.

    Bubba
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's wiser to dine in the morning.

    Mari
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I am sometimes still upset, but I calm down when we're going to sleep. I don't want a stressy night or nightmares. We just say eachother goodnight and agree to talk about it the following day.

    Momagator
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I’ll sometimes sit on an issue for several days to see if I’m legitimate upset, or it was just a knee jerk reaction.

    Rachknits
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Completely agree with this, it gives your body the chance to turn off your fight/flight/freeze/fawn mechanism and be able to think more clearly. When we are wound up the parts of your brain responsible for thinking are powered down so your perception isn't great. By taking time out your body stops it 'emergency response' mode and leave back in (fairly) reasonable normal mode.

    Elizabeth Molloy
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Missing the point. I have known two people who were young, fit and healthy who died in their sleep for no apparent reason.

    Mrs. Jan Glass
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If you can't go to sleep during a disagreement because your partner might legitimately kill you, there are bigger issues at play.

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    Joe Brody
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not a farming chance. That's how you wake up with the impression of a waffle iron on your face. Just sayin. It didn't happen to me. I woke up in time.

    Rachknits
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's different from being angry with someone, that's abuse

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    #10

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On My grandfather told me " Never go to bed with dirty dishes in the sink" . What I learned is that he would always help my grandma and that is when they did their most talking

    t480 , cottonbro Report

    Random Anon
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I live alone and I do that too. It makes making a decent breakfast a lot more appealing the next morning.

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    #11

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On On our wedding day, my father-in-law said, 'Always remember it's the two of you against the problem, not you two against one another.' It's been great advice, especially when we disagree. Focusing on this piece of advice has calmed a lot of arguments over the years.

    XANDERtheSHEEPDOG , Jeremy Wong Weddings Report

    Caro Caro
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I love this advice but can't actually explain why. So many problems and differences of opinions trigger an argument and when you look back it's like "we should and could have solved this together". Oh, I did explain ... :D

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    #12

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On Looks fade, marry someone who you enjoy talking to. -grandma I also feel strongly about this one. Find someone who is ok with you both having separate hobbies. My wife does her thing and I have my hobby. We share some hobbies, but we are ok with spending time apart too. We don't have to always do them together. I couldn't imagine marrying a woman who needed to do every single thing I did just to be around me. She needs to have her own life and I love not forcing her into the nerdy stuff I enjoy.

    catalystkjoe , Simon Godfrey Report

    Elizabeth Elliot
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If a partner disses any of your hobbies, that's a big red flag!

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    #13

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On 'Don’t worry about what other people think is 'normal.' I’ve been married for almost 20 years, and this piece of insight has made all the difference. You don't need to conform to society’s standards. Do what works for you and your partner in a marriage.

    lizardo94 , Manuel Meurisse Report

    Juan Ghote
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ever notice how many people are willing to say "others" are "weird/crazy/abnormal" yet believe they're "normal" - Meanwhile the "others" are doing the reverse... We're all likely crazy, though it's not a competition :-P

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    #14

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On 'Never ask your partner to make a sacrifice for you that you wouldn’t make for them if the roles were reversed.

    jillannk3 , Priscilla Du Preez Report

    April Stephens
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is beautiful advice. It reminds me of someone I knew once, a Catholic priest. One of his parishioners asked him to put the word out to the whole parish that she needed a kidney transplant. He ended up giving her his own kidney! I asked him why he did it, and he said he wasn't willing to ask his parishioners to do something that he wouldn't do himself!

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    #15

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On When our kid was about to be born, someone told me to change the first diaper. "If you can handle the first one, the others will be easy." So I did. I didn't know what I was doing, so I asked the nurse at the hospital to teach me, and I changed the first several few diapers while my wife recovered from a difficult labor. The advice was correct, no other diaper was as disgusting as the first one. It got very easy and I never minded doing it, and my wife was really really grateful. And I loved that I could take on some of the parenting chores, since there was so much that she was the only one... equipped to provide.

    wordserious , Nathan Dumlao Report

    Tigerpacingthecage
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes. Divide parenting as equal as possible early on. Otherwise you WILL resent your non-birthing partner. Yes, as a mom you will probably take maternity leave first and probably for a longer time. If you are breastfeeding you will probably take most nights and spend a lot of time with them as babies, but that doesn't mean dads/non-birthing partners should be excluded. They can still bond with baby in a carrier, change most diapers, fix food (so you can do all that nursing), do baby/child clothes shopping and research for the best car seat ETC. And take some paternity leave alone with baby (PLEASE do that). When one parent is on parental leave they have responsibility for the child the hrs the partner work. All other hrs you share 50/50. That goes with housework too. It will be much better for the relationship and for your child who will bond equally with both parents.

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    #16

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On The advice I’ve given people is this: if you can go grocery shopping with your person and have the best time ever, you have yourself a keeper. It’s all about making the best of the mundane things, because after years of being together, life becomes predictable. You’ll need to keep the spice going, regardless of what you’re doing. Source: married 15 years.

    LemonFizzy0000 , Jack Sparrow Report

    RaroaRaroa
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I must be headed for divorce then. I can't stand it when my husband comes to the supermarket with me. It takes forever.

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    #17

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On My fiance always says that "just because" flowers are the best kind of flowers.

    agaribay1010 , Rikonavt Report

    JinxBox
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Also, don't expect gifts and flowers to go in one direction only -buy flowers and little gifts to your husband too 😉

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    #18

    A meme when I was first getting married was, "Happy wife, happy life". Which has some degree of accuracy. But much later, I learned the better version, which I should have been more considerate of: "Happy Spouse, Happy House".

    antisocial_hubby Report

    Rachknits
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My DH says this all the time, he's wonderful

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    #19

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On My father always said that the best thing he and my mother did for their marriage was get a king-sized bed. I always thought it was ridiculous advice until recently, when my wife and I needed a new bed. We spent the extra money on a king, and I'll be damned if that wasn't one of the best decisions we have made. The extra room is amazing: We can snuggle or have some space, and when our kids try and get in bed, there's enough room that no one is getting a foot to the face.

    /thecountnotthesaint , Skylar Kang Report

    James016
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We have a super king because why not. And for these reasons as well.

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    #20

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On 'The grass is greener when you water it.' This one always stuck with me. Your relationship is what you make of it, and it will be happier if you put love and effort into it.

    Jancer3lla , Katie Salerno Report

    Joy Hunter
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Actually, conventional wisdom when I was growing up was "The grass is ALWAYS greener over the septic tank"...because c**p makes great fertilizer. (Title of a book by humor writer Erma Bombeck.)

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    #21

    Intimacy isn’t about sex.

    jennej1289 Report

    Lisa H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sometimes a good long cuddle is the best thing ever. Or even a long conversation. It could even be a casual conversation.

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    #22

    One of my colonels told me: “just buy two damn pizzas, instead of arguing over the toppings.”

    mgoblue702 Report

    #23

    Moma said "don't come whinning to me about your wife, go talk to her"....and don't spend your time complaining to ANY one about your SO. If you need advice, ask, but no talking down about your SO, chances are they have a long list of complaints too.

    Aware-Rock5769 Report

    TJay
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My ex husband would go cry to his mom about our marital problems but never addressed anything with me...we didn't make it to our second anniversary

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    #24

    Retain your individuality and have separate hobbies even after you're married. Have time apart. Have separate activities. This will allow you to have experiences you can talk about and share with each other. It will give you time apart so you don't feel smothered.

    AlphaTangoFoxtrt Report

    Anne Van Staden
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Next month we'll be married for 13th years. Truly great advice.

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    #25

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On My step mom just passed away, and dad said something that has profoundly changed my attitude: >"The little things that annoyed me are the things I now miss" So, like, yea... for some reason she squeezes a massive glob of toothpaste which mostly falls into the sink basin and she doesn't wash away the toothpaste spit... f*****g annoys me. *If/when she's gone, that little constant annoyance that reminds me she's there will be gone too.* Don't nag on the little things, rather, embrace them. (still, let her know ... she has made progress on other things I've pointed out, as I try to adapt to her wishes).

    drewkungfu , Diego Lozano Report

    Mad Dragon
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My dad married a nice lady after my mom passed away. He told me, “She (current wife) is so calm. I sort of miss the conflicts I had with your mom.”

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    #26

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On When an argument is brewing stop and eat something, you may just be hungry.

    Far_Opportunity_8690 , Priscilla Du Preez Report

    #27

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On You don't just marry her, you marry her whole damn family.

    crazyprsn , Al Elmes Report

    Carrie de Luka
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My family used to be great, sadly the dynamics can change (very complex). I allow my husband to avoid them. Not his fault I came with them.

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    #28

    Love isn’t about having “nice feelings for each other.” It’s about acting for the betterment of someone else, even if you don’t feel like it. Emotions will change. Your willingness to treat your spouse a certain way doesn’t have to.

    sirplaid Report

    Elizabeth Elliot
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Man, every single one of these bits of advice should be joint first!

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    #29

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On Mine is almost the exact opposite. My husband snores really loud. I started sleeping separately and we have a much better relationship now. Probably because I'm not constantly sleep deprived. We both fought it so hard for so long because there is this idea that only unhappy couples sleep apart from each other. The truth is, you've got to do what works for the both of you and not worry about preconceived notions about intimacy, etc.

    cometdogisawesome , Pixabay Report

    Tigerpacingthecage
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I sort of agree. I'm a bit ish on intimacy though. Yes it saves resentment with the snoring, and yes you could have sex in another room. But I do miss midnight/morning cuddling and other morning stuff...But yeah, overall it's worth it and often the only option!

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    #30

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On Grandma said "love is like coffee. Sometimes it's hot, sometimes it's cold, sometimes it's sweet, sometimes it's bitter. No matter how you like it, it is good. But it's only great when you get it 'the way you like it'. Make sure you get what you want".

    Pathfinder91606 , Nathan Dumlao Report

    Shelli LotusFlower
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Managing each other’s expectations as you go up and down sounds odd but makes a difference

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    #31

    Whoever cares the most gets to choose (within reason obviously). Maybe you don't care which restaurant you eat at tonight, so you let her choose. But maybe when your parents come to visit, you care a lot about where you take them. Then you choose.

    humancartograph Report

    #32

    Don't share your arguments with your family. It will paint a bad image of your spouse. This is VERY true and will cause more annoying issues than you need in life.

    Gnome_Imploder Report

    #33

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On Marry your best friend — the person you like to have random conversations with, who interests you, who makes you laugh a lot. Marry the one you can spend all your time with, the one who will support you in tough times and good times. That is 'the one'.

    DeanSmartin , Gita Krishnamurti Report

    Caro Caro
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I was very lucky. I married the love of my life and my soulmate. We could be goofy, talked about everything, he was funny and supportive. He wasn't perfect but better than me and he was always gentle in his reactions, even in an argument.

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    #34

    There are certain words, certain tone of voice, etc. that you can use on your children, a friend, a subordinate or even your boss, but which you just shouldn't use on your spouse.

    Traditional_Bell7883 Report

    #35

    Always act like it's the last time you'll see them. Cause it might be. My mother passed last year at 45 from her second bout with cancer. Middle of the night, my dad said he's glad he stayed up later to spend a few more minutes with her. To tell her he loved her. You never know when you'll never see them again. Also pride doesn't belong in your marriage, if you have any self pride leave it at the door both you and your partner serve each other and support each other, each putting the other first and accept that they are giving it their all even if their all isn't what it was last month.

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    Joe Brody
    Community Member
    3 years ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    My wife always acts like it's the last time she'll see me. She always leaves the house just so happy. But then, when she comes back and I'm still there, she gets very depressed and sleeps a lot. That's probably not good, huh. My ex wife used to do the same thing.

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    #36

    After having a baby you will fight and argue a lot. You will both be exhausted from lack of sleep, and that causes high emotions. It won’t last. Be aware it’s coming. Do the best you can to work together.

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    Tigerpacingthecage
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah. The first 3yrs especially will be child first relationship later. Make your relationship strong enough before baby comes (especially during pregnancy- use that time to really bond and prepare) to make it through that.

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    #37

    My dad used to tell me this. “You can only control two things in this life. Your thoughts and your actions. The rest is out of your control and you need to let it go.” I used to think it was so stupid when I was a kid but man has it been spot on as I became an adult.

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    Smogul
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Best advice ever. Get the word “worry” out of your vocabulary because, chances are, you can’t stop/change the thing you’re worried about anyway. Be concerned, don’t “worry”!

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    #38

    Randomly give your partner a cold beverage on a hot day. It's the little things that show you care.

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    Judes
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ugh. I hate people randomly preparing food or drink for me without asking. I generally don't want it and I hate things being wasted. It's better to know what your partner likes and doesn't like, and then act appropriately.

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    #39

    My mom told me once (still can’t decide if this is good or bad- I think just realistic, which helped me!): “if you’re expecting 50/50 all the time you’re going to be disappointed a lot. Sometimes it’s 60/40, sometimes it’s 70/30, sometimes it’s 90/10. You’ll have times where he’s doing it all, and he’ll have times where you’re doing it all.” I think what she meant was basically “marriage is (hopefully) long. Don’t keep score.”

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    Deborah B
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The one I heard is both partners should try to put in 80% - chances are your partner is doing a lot you don't notice.

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    #40

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On Gratitude is not a balancing act. Don't just be grateful for the 'extra' things your spouse does; be grateful for every single thing. You can shop for food, prepare it, cook it, clear the table, and load the dishwasher. But if your partner empties the dishwasher, thank them for it and feel it.

    Snuffleupagus03 , cottonbro Report

    Cinnamon
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This advice has been the key to success for my marriage. Kindness, verbal gratitude and simple gestures.

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    #41

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On Know each other's love language. And your own! You could pour your heart into something that you would appreciate receiving (whether it's gifts, time, conversation, touch, etc.) and have it fall flat because your partner responds more naturally to something else.

    bethramseya , cottonbro Report

    Polly Hart
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I chose a partner who naturally has the same love languages as me. I've never been happier!

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    #42

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On If you're doing marriage right, the 'dating phase' of your relationship never ends

    FarWoods , René Ranisch Report

    Sanne H.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Out of experience, I can recommend every couple a weekly « date night ».

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    #43

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On “Don’t criticise each other’s driving - it leads down a dark path”

    nellucd , Darwin Vegher Report

    Marisol L. Banks
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    So true. The only time we get tense with each other is when he provides constant “guidance” on my driving. It’s gotten to where I sometimes dread going on long drives with him, cause I know that although I’m the one behind the wheel, he’s trying to direct how fast I’m going, what lane I’m in, which cars to get around, and the constant cry to “make the light, make the light.” (I need to drive because I get easily carsick. So it’s always a choice between being queasy or being irritated.)

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    #44

    The whole "women talk to share emotions not to find solutions" still feels totally bizarre and wrong to me but it works so well it's like a cheat code or something.

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    Elizaa Spooks
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    What I like to do when my partner rants to me is ask "what do you need right now, comfort or advice?" Works like a charm every time

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    #45

    Get blankets that are bigger than your bed size. Queen size bed? Get King sized comforter. No more fighting for cover while sleeping

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    Chelle Jones
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Keep an extra throw blanket at foot of bed incase one of you requires it.

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    #46

    At my wedding my wife's Grandmother offered so funny, weird, solid advice. She said, " If you get angery with each other, go to bed naked and see if you can resolve it before you go to sleep" So far, so good. Anniversary on Monday!

    drizzyjdracco Report

    Tigerpacingthecage
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Meh about that. Sex is not always the solution and it could just as easily escalate issues if you put pressure on having sex when one of you/both isn't really up for it.

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    #47

    Don't marry a woman that has horses. She will always be broke, you will never be first, and your schedule will revolve around feedings. Pop, who married a woman that had horses.

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    Smogul
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Same goes for guys and motorbikes… so if you like bikes, see if she likes horses! 🏍🐎

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    #48

    This is one I developed myself about 10 years ago. Don't forget to breathe. Your relationship was founded on your individuality. If you are not taking time to be yourselves as individuals, you are not maintaining yourselves and eroding the foundation of you relationship and your life. There is a reason most employers provide vacation. Time to get away from the grindstone, reset, recharge, and breathe. Same thing for your relationships. When you are together, you are a couple. When you are with the kids, you are parents. At work, you are working. There is a reason things like guy's/girl's night, man caves, and craft rooms exist. To take time apart, build individually, and appreciate your time together more. This is true of all relationships, romantic, parental, vocational, and personal. If you're not breathing, you're not doing much.

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    Joe Brody
    Community Member
    3 years ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    I am a big fan of breathing. Perhaps you could talk to my wife about not putting plastic over my face when I'm sleeping. I'm starting to doubt that she's doing it to keep moisture in my complexion. Especially since, when I offered to do this for her, she ran screaming from the house and called the police.

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    #49

    Grab each other's butts as often as possible. Keep the flirtation alive.

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    #50

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On The best advice I ever got is to have realistic expectations of one another. Lofty expectations that go unmet are the root of unhappiness.

    BluePinky , Heather Mount Report

    Tigerpacingthecage
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    ...or at least share a goal where your relationship is going. If you have different goals you could compromise about a shared one so you know what you as a couple will work on (I believe relationships need to constantly evolve as we change). Don't expect your partner to just know your expectations without telling them.

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    #51

    As Rita Rudner said about changing your SO, “That pie’s baked. If you want a different flavor, get a different pie.”

    SMKnightly Report

    Chelle Jones
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Great advice! Been married 27 years & he has changed but not into anyone I desired other than the growth of the man I loved and still love and married.

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    #52

    My mom told me this once, >S**t happens. No matter how bad it is between you and your spouse, never let anyone know your problems other than your spouse. When we told our problems, especially to a different sex, that'd be another problem coming in. That's where the third person arises.

    Meemeemiaw23 Report

    Julie Chamberlin
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Exception: a therapist. Go to marriage counseling BEFORE things get really bad.

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    #53

    30 Times People Received Marriage Advice That Sounded Absurd, But They Later Realized Was Spot-On Decide whether or not a fight is really worth having. Think: 'If it doesn't matter tomorrow, does it really matter today?

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    RaroaRaroa
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I disagree. If it matters to you now, makes you feel unvalued perhaps, and your partner doesn't know or care, then it will happen again. Maybe not a fight, but you should speak up.

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    #54

    Don’t marry a woman whose dad calls her “princess”, because she probably believes it. Much to his regret, my brother ignored this advice from our dad.

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    #55

    My grandma told me that she wished she had been a tart (ie a bit slutty) before she got married. Sow your wild oats whilst you are young and single!!!

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    #56

    “Marry someone you want to annoy for the rest of your life” I can’t help it. She’s tiny and adorable when she’s mad.

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    Smogul
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes! But make fun, don’t annoy too hard 😂

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    #57

    Don’t stop dating your spouse.

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    #58

    Focus on tackling the problem, not each other

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    Joe Brody
    Community Member
    3 years ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    Please tell my wife that. My knees are banged up enough. And we're only married six months. In another year, I'll be on crutches or wheel chair bound.

    #59

    My grandmother said have sex often and loudly 😂

    HJD68 Report

    #60

    If you don't agree on religion, then walk away. If your atheist don't marry a heavily religious person. You'll get sick of hearing "it's God will" or "He (God) has a plan for you." The reverse you don't want your spouse to be invalidating or questioning or attacking your beliefs. Said because "Christain values are meant to make a good partner" - Society (at least the one I'm from).

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    Adam Zad
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    So... it was God's will that you would fall for and marry an atheist.

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    #61

    My dad asked me 10 minutes before getting married if I was sure I wanted to do this and said I can back out now if I wanted to. I should have listened. My marriage lasted 8 years, yet my parents have been married 60 years now!

    LiamTG Report

    PCW10101
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My Dad asked me the same thing, I wish I had listened too and been honest with him - sometimes, even when you know it isn't right, you just get swept up in the whole fairy tale. And it turns into a complete nightmare. My folks made it to 62 years.

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    #62

    Marriage is like a business. Most fail. Some are exceptional. Discuss and set some goals. And definitely get your financial house in order.

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    #63

    I got 2 king beds pushed together. Mega bed. I got a very bad back and am 6' 8" so i need my space when i sleep.

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    #64

    marriage is the act of solving as a team problems you didnt have before.

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    #65

    Don’t have too high of expectations. My dad told us that, but we found most of our early fights were when one or the other had unspoken expectations of the other or marriage. It is positively life changing to be married, and an amazing experience, but still life goes on.

    nopants_ranchdance Report

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    #66

    My dad told me "No matter how right you are about something - stay silent and let her rattle. She'll run out of steam eventually. You've said nothing you regret, nothing that can be held against you, and she's smart enough to figure out you were right, completely on her own. If you're wrong: admit it, apologize, and shut up. Either way, let her talk. Clearly women don't fart; therefore we let them vent through b****ing, so they don't explode." They were married for 40 years. He did something right.

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    Joy Hunter
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My parents separated about 3 months after their 50th anniversary. Longevity, especially among the older generations, is sometimes just a sign of "But I can't get DIVORCED!" M mother told me later that she knew their marriage was a mistake after 6 months. But instead of leaving him then, she stayed with him, had 2 kids, made their childhoods hell with all the bickering, and then left him in the end anyway. Just get it over with.

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    #67

    Cooking together

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    Lisa H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I may disagree. If I need help in the kitchen, then please help me. If I don't need help, please get the clusterfuck out of my kitchen.

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    #68

    Love is a choice. Acyively decide to love someone because feelings are fleeting

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    #69

    everyone gets their own sheets when you sleep.

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    #70

    From my sister:your not always IN love but you always love From my uncle: be careful what you say when your pissed you can’t always take it back Both were married till the day they died and my uncle was happily married. My advice is it’s about commitment we are committed to spending the rest of our lives together through all the bad times.

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    #71

    Before I was married I had an irregular heart beat due to single-guy life choices. Doctor prescribed meds for it, but told me the best option is to get married. Now I'm married --- i.e. regular sleeping schedule, eat healthy meals at home, drink less, lost weight -- and no more heart problem.

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    Joy Hunter
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Married men live longer than unmarried men. Unmarried women live longer than married women. Hmmm.

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    #72

    Its okay to do what you want to do. If your wife or gf wants you to do what she is but you want to do something else. Its okay to go do your own thing. Most times they will become intrested and come find you.

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    #73

    Don't wait until you're "Ready". If you love each other, and it feels right, do it.

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    Kiss Army
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "You love each other, and it feels right"... isn't that kind of what being READY is?

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    #74

    My wife’s nonna: when you have children you life is over.

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    Tigerpacingthecage
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    No. It isn't. It will be sort of on pause for a bit but not over. The first years are child first, very intensely - yes. But children do grow up. As they reach 7-8 or so they are much more independent and can put on clothes by themselves (that one much sooner) do some chores and fix their own stuff for school and activities etc. You start to get your life back and live WITH children and not for all their needs 24/7. It will get easier so don't scare people. And it's also the point of share parenting. Make sure to divide time equally to get to do something individually to make you feel like a person, could be going to the gym for example. Your life is far from over permanently. Don't be a martyr for your kids. Don't stop having fun. Share responsibility. Unhappy parents lead to unhappy kids.

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    #75

    Your money is NOT their money & theirs is not yours. Share expenses not bank accounts.

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    Deborah B
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You should have a shared account, and individual accounts. Pay an agreed proportion of your income into the shared account, and all shared expenses come from that. Everyone should have their own as well, because the two of you are not going to agree on every purchase and budgeting decision, and shouldn't have to.

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    #76

    "collars and leashes work just as well for your b***h as they do your dog" -80+ year old great uncle at my wedding. "Touching need be about more than just sex man, you got to touch for the sake of love and connection." -20 year old drug dealer at my wedding

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    Joy Hunter
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The 80-year-old uncle who calls your bride a b***h isn't exactly a good model to follow, now, is he?

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    #77

    Wives need their husband’s love, then their respect, husbands need their wife’s respect, then their love.

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    No you didn't
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wow, I hear a phone ring, that must be the 50s wanting their attitude back.

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    #78

    No matter how long you are married, never forget your wife's name. Especially when banging her donkey style.

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    #79

    "Have a threesome before you get married or marry a chick who likes tits as much as you!" - Dad ~RIP~

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    Tigerpacingthecage
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is toxic masculinity right there. Not all men (actually) prioritize sex and to get to keep have sex with other women as the most important thing in marriage.

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