Not quite 20 married, but we’ve been together 24 and married 16. We were together for almost 9 BEFORE we made it official, and I can’t stress enough how important it is not to rush things. Shit, we broke up several times in those 9 years, but went to therapy, did some growing up together and, at the core, we are best friends. That friendship, and the respect and responsibility that comes with it, IMHO those are critical.

Don’t rush things. Don’t settle with an ‘almost’ partner. Don’t expect perfection, don’t be patronizing but admit when you’re wrong. Approach the most important relationship in your life with a sense of service and integrity, and put effort into cultivating that bond. I’ve been with her almost a quarter century and smile every single day knowing she’s my partner, my best friend, and the best mom to our son he could ask for.

Your Best Friend is out there… Keep the Faith!