It is a lifelong partnership of a man and a woman, two unique individuals who understand,

respect, and care for each other. Is a socially accepted union of individual with the key function of

establishing a family, companionship, economic stability and emotional security for every member.

It is a dynamic relationship through which both partners continue to grow and develop their best

qualities as human beings. Is the most enjoyable human relationship.

Happiness is not found; it is earned.

Being the right person rather than

finding the right person

- Couples who are older are generally more mature.

Advantages: They have accumulated many experiences in life and are therefore

better able to cope with reality. They tend to make sound decisions base on clear

perceptions of problems and goals. Importance of

MATURITY

 Economic independence is eliminated. Responsible parenthood.

 Marriage couples are capable of coping with real world responsibilities of marriage life.

FACTORS before couples decide to become parents Their age and physical health.

 Their financial status. Their career plan. Their relationship with partner.

 Their childcare plans. Their emotional readiness for parenthood.

 Their social support system. Their personal qualities, attitudes towards children

and aptitude for parenting. Their philosophical and religious beliefs.

Ingredients of a Successful Marriage

LOVE There are marriages where

love is not the primary reason of the union; but it is only through love that two people can live together happily

as husband and wife or as a couple.

UNDERSTANDING

No human being is perfect. Man is a mixture of good and bad, positive and negative, strengths and weaknesses.

CARE
Anyone who truly loves and cares for his partner is a conscious of human needs. He considers his loved ones happiness as important as his own.

LOYALTY A relationship, in order to be secure, is founded on mutual TRUST. It is based on a commitment which

ideally lasts a lifetime. A SHARED PHILOSOPHY Partners should have a set of beliefs

which constitute a philosophy of life.