By Not Known
There was a report six years ago of a centenarian couple who were the longest married couple in the world. They were married in 1925 and had remained faithful to each other since. Karam Chand passed on in 2016 at age 110. Mrs Chand was then 103 and they were married for 91 years!
To be able to break that world record, one has to live as long if not longer. However, the point was not just about records. When they were interviewed for the Guinness Book of World records, Karam proudly announced about the secret of their long lasting marriage, “My trick is to make Katari laugh. I like to tell jokes and make her laugh. To be funny is my way of being romantic.”
That was just one of their secrets, there were others. Katari added, “Always be faithful to one another. When you are married you commit to devoting your entire life to that person and even when the times are tough, don’t believe that the grass is greener…because it isn’t.”
They also devoted themselves to look after one another as best as you can, and “in every shape and form.” Whether it is making a meal or holding your partners hand when crossing the road or being a shoulder to cry on when something goes wrong.
The third secret they had was to be tolerant, regardless of whatever bad habits or annoying traits. And there were plenty, they both confirmed with a chuckle. Whether it is leaving a towel in the wrong place or listening to the radio too loudly.
Another secret was to always listen to each other by focusing on the person when that person is speaking. Their hearing might have deteriorated over the years, but it just brought them closer together in order to hear every word.
Finally, he said, “Respect, care, cherish, love and value your partner, always treat her how you would want to be treated yourself.” He spoke adoringly and smiled at Katari.
In today’s world, tolerance is waning. Focus has too many competitions. Respect is thrown out of the window because most want to take care for themselves first. Most of all, intentional and loving communication is the missing key.
Still, the main point is not about debating on how long should our marriages last but rather, how to keep our marriages “till death do us part.” It is not about whether divorces are lawful or acceptable but about being obedient to the Word of the Lord.