The secret of love is not trying to reshape your partner into a mold of your own making. Criticism is corrosive. Accept what is, and you will both be happier. A good rule is this: Encourage the strengths you see, but neither feed nor cauterize the weakness.
The secret of love is when misunderstandings occur, not to dwell on how your partner has disappointed you. Ask yourself, rather, what you can do to improve ‘yourself,” that misunderstandings not arise in the future.
The secret of love is for neither of you to assume the role of teacher to the other where personal issues are concerned. On the other hand, be grateful for anything you can learn from each other.
The secret of love is when you feel inspired to make suggestions, concentrate not on your own need to make them, but on the other’s need to hear. Wait even then—months, if need be—until you perceive in your partner a “readiness” to hear what you have to say.
The secret of love is sharing with each other your deeper beliefs, your ideals, and your aspirations . . . to be continued in the next issue. Live, love and laugh.
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