My grandfather will be 94 years old next month. He is a kind, wonderful, interesting man with much knowledge to share and I always enjoy talking to him. Actually, I get more out of listening to him. He offers wisdom, insight, and advice on myriad topics, and it’s always good, solid, information, because it’s generally something he’s learned, observed, or experienced in his many years.
His advice on marriage is something that will always stick with me. It is in fact good advice in regard to any personal relationship. Aside from the obvious –love- there is another trait that is imperative to lasting relationships, and that is reliability. It may not sound very romantic or exciting, but then, maybe that is the whole point. When a relationship outgrows some of its newness, there has to be more than romance and excitement to hold it together.
Reliability encompasses several other things from trustworthiness and loyalty to compassion and understanding, and many things in between. When our spouses know that they can depend on us to care, to empathize, to listen, or to simply be there, even the toughest moments in life seem more do-able. We find that we can get through any trial when someone we love believes in us.
My grandfather was nothing if not reliable. He cared for his family and for my grandmother until her last day. Despite his own health problems and difficulties, he always went out of his way to make sure she was comfortable and had everything she needed, including his hand to hold onto.
Reliability goes beyond the sense that someone can depend on you if he or she must do so. It is about being consistent, being available and caring, no matter what. It’s something that takes a good deal of effort but it is definitely a worthy goal.
Family & Marriage: Grandparents Day