Lasting Love

It starts out and ends up with Love for a partner you think the world of Yet the middle poses daily tests where the verdict of a marriage rests To list all these tests would take a book So let's just take the briefest look At qualities you'll need in spades To earn yourselves a passing grade Acceptance I feel is number one It keeps a marriage healthy, fun Use it when you learn that 'perfection' Is a goal wise couples shun Next comes mutual respect, understanding Never accomplished by grandstanding Always respect each other's space and privacy Know when hugs are needed, or a gentle "I see" One last quality that's key is good cheer and optimism Loving greetings and goodbyes - never negativism Encourage, inspire and support; lend a helping hand Cultivate all this and Love ~ even marriage can withstand