Just lucky. I have had people ask me about what we do that makes our marriage so successful. I could spout off a few things, but I believe luck of the draw has more to do with it than anything else. We are actually completely opposites in how we approach life, but it works somehow. I would never say our way is right for everyone.

I do not believe men or women should ignore their partner's wants either. I completely agree. It is pretty hard when capitalist Advertising has pretty much dictated the third of the income or other things surrounding marriage that many start their marriage out in debt or spending money that would be better used. Americans truly struggle with our materialist system.

Don't get me wrong, I appreciate beautiful pieces of Jewelry, I just want my marriage to be based only on the internal things that count long term. My experience has shown there is no middle ground in this area.

I do love your writing and agree on many points, so it is not a criticism of your perspective, just giving my own. Thank you for taking time to respond, Ellen.