There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage. – Martin Luther

Meaghan and I had our 18th wedding anniversary over the weekend.

Every time I see a couple post one of these milestones, it reminds of the something special that a good marriage is.

Marriage is a unique opportunity for those that engage in it.

Essentially, you sign up to spend the rest of your life placing another person’s before your own. Sure, you sign up for this when you become a parent as well, but you have to live with your spouse for the rest of your life.

I believe more and more each day that our happiness lies in those moments when we can be of service to others and to place our own needs behind that of another’s.

Marriage is a lifetime of those opportunities.

And for those that seize that opportunity, it is a lifetime of bliss.

I am sure even the best marriages miss most of those opportunities, but I am also sure that they capitalize on far more than the average marriage.

I am thankful every time I hear or see of someone reaching a major milestone year with their marriage, because it reminds that it can be done. It is possible to put another’s needs before our own, to let go of that selfish side of ourselves in order to love another better.

Seize the opportunity to be of service today.

Make it a great day.

Jake

Bonus point – when you see someone who reaches a milestone like this, seek out any wisdom you can get. Ask them questions. Ask them to mentor you.

Bonus point 2 – for the singles only – practice, practice, practice. Want to find a spouse? Want to be a better husband/wife when you do get married? Practice, practice, practice. Find others to serve and serve them. Find a way to put others first and do it. ​