Marriage Is Not A Noun; It's Verb

A recipe for an ideal marriage.

- Seema Nirupam

It is said that marriage is a relationship in which dependence is equal, dependence is mutual and obligation is reciprocal.

This goes to show that though marriages are said to be made in heaven, a good one has to be created here on earth. This definitely is not easy and neither can a marriage survive on a sense of duty or sacrifice alone.

So how do some couples manage to live together for janam, janam, while others end up in separation so soon?

Neha and Mukul say they are blessed with each other. Married for 15 years, they are still to experience to proverbial the seven-year itch.

I feel that the real love actually grows with years of togetherness. It surpasses physical attractiveness or the romantic atmosphere of the initial phase. Marriage is to care and share and this attitude is reflected in the little nothings your partner does. Mukul keeps his promises, never acts superior and respects me as a person, reveals Neha, a teacher by profession.

Mukul adds, Neha and I share perfect rapport. She loves me for what I am. And both of us have enormous capacities to forgive and forget. We put bitter memories at the back of beyond and they never haunt us. Together, they make a pretty picture. Marriage clicks when couples are really together, facing the world. With a willing heart, anyone can strive towards a perfect alliance. And it is never too late to make a fresh start as it is not only marrying the right partner that counts; it is also being the right partner.

Be demonstrative

Cut loose. The dictionary is full of words - words of love and appreciation that can work magic. Many a time, we cease to express our feelings, assuming that the other person knows how we feel. But we ourselves crave to hear such words.

Don't shy away from making the first move. Endearments revive romance in life. Sit close to each other, hold hands and share little secrets walk together.