Today, October 18, 2018, marks 50 years since Alan and Margaret Lane from Scotts Head said ‘I do’ – promising to love, cherish and honour each other on their journey of life together as it unfolded over the year to come.
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The couple were married in Glebe, Sydney in 1968 and settled in Alan’s hometown of Scotts Head shortly after.
They will be celebrating with their close family over the course of the weekend, who wish them congratulations on 50 years of marriage.
Known as the Golden Anniversary, the 50th wedding anniversary is a remarkable symbol of love’s versatility and resilience.
But what makes a lasting marriage?
According to the Australian Institute of Family Studies it’s no secret that a happily-ever-after requires more than just a romantic sunset and a white steed.
Using data from a 1998-study by Finnegan Alford-Cooper on 576 couples whose marriages were intact after 50 years or more, results showed that good communication and mutual respect were among the fundamental keys to longevity.
When asked how they would advise young couples on how to make their marriage a long and happy one, respondents highlighted five key approaches.
- There must be a similarity of values, backgrounds and interests as a way to prevent or ameliorate discord, especially in relation to children and parenting.
- A successful marriage will be characterised by love, regard and mutual respect that go beyond sexual desire and contribute to an intimacy that can only be developed over time.
- Don't look for, or try to create, the perfect spouse. Take the time to get to really know your spouse's character before marrying them - and then make a serious commitment to the development of a long-term marriage.
- Communicate openly and honestly but tactfully, even and especially during those times when communicating is most difficult.
- Show a willingness to compromise, to negotiate and to share responsibilities, realising that you won't always be giving and taking in equal measures but that over time it will balance out.
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