My wife’s birthday today. So naturally, this is a really important day for me!! I spent some time while driving home this afternoon contemplating the value of having a companion in life. Today, it seems, that marriage is considered almost an old school, outdated notion that has little value. It is almost dismissed as too cumbersome a tradition to be weighed down with. People point out the failures, they troubles, custody disputes, affairs, and all the other bad context.
However, as I think about my experience over the last 23+ years of being committed to the same woman, my appreciation of marriage has only improved. Sure it may not be for everyone, and perhaps I just got really lucky, but I have nothing but praise for the institution of marriage.
Not that it has been easy. It has been a lifetime of learning how to put the needs of another above my own. To wake up concerned for the welfare of someone I consider important then myself is not natural. To have someone equally concerned about me, is a great feeling but sometimes you want to run away from your weaknesses. Your dedicated spouse is there to remind you of what is important, and if you pay attention, you just might become a better person.
A good reciprocal relationship with someone that you are fully committed to is of awesome benefit. You have a built in counselor, built in support system, built in cheerleader, and built in life coach. My wife is my greatest advocate, a vicious defender of my interests, and the first person to offer praise when deserved and criticism when it is not. She is both my check and my balance.
I will spend my life trying to figure out how to get it right. Sincerely if I could indeed become one with her then I would be that much better as a person. The bible calls the woman a help meet for a man, but I think I am more likely to believe the old time phase that she is my better half. She has become my guide in this difficult journey, the one that I can bounce ideas off, ask advice from, and seek an honest opinion. Indeed, life in a strong committed relationship is so much easier to live. I still have not been married longer then I was single, but I am definitely at the point where I could not imagine life without her constantly by my side.
Guy Reams
Day 360 – The Concept of Eudaimonia
Aristotle’s concept of eudaimonia, or the highest human good, suggests that true happiness comes from aligning our actions with our cherished virtues over a sustained period, rather than from fleeting pleasures. This involves living a life that feels purposeful and authentic, even through struggles.
Awesome! I love the way you appreciate your wife even after 23 years.
Happy Birthday to your wife.
She has not read it yet either! Thanks! Guy