I think hearing about real marriages from real couples who have dealt with real issues is a great way to sort through your own issues and find answers that can help you.The first couple in the spotlight are Amanda and Ben Butterworth. They are are 27 and 29, respectively, and have been together for nearly 13 years and married for 1.5 years. Thirteen. THIRTEEN. More than half of Amanda’s life! Insanity.
They were gracious enough to answer some of my questions and I loved their answers. I hope this isn’t offensive, but their advice sounds like it’s coming from a much older couple. They seem very mature and I’m sure that is why they have been able to stay together for THIRTEEN YEARS. Seriously…amazing.
Ok, on with the Couple Spot Light of Amanda and Ben…
We cant really pinpoint an exact moment when we knew- we just knew we didnt want to be apart! And as teenagers not wanting to break up and date other people says a lot for a couple and their desire to be together long term
Mandy: She gives me my independence, allows me to pursue my hobbies without complaining; she gives me space to be me when I need it.
When Ben graduated high school and went on to college, making it the first time we were doing separate things and the unknown that lie ahead of us and our relationship.
(answered this one and the next one in terms of our relationship instead of marriage due to the lack of years married haha)
The first year we were married was our best year because it felt like a time when we both grew so close, we fought less than we ever had, it seemed as if since we were married, that we knew we had to grow and learn more about each other and work on the little things that annoyed the other person!
Pay attention to each other, talk often, have separate time apart for your own personal fun, breath and think before saying something that could scar that person forever.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I loved the interview and since I have known you (Amanda) all your life and Ben for the entire time you’ve been together, I can truthfully say that I feel you both are working sincerely hard on your relationship and I don’t see it as a smothering relationship which so many people make the mistake of doing. God bless and hope you have many more years together.
This is another special moment in your life together to scrapbook!. I love it and I love your commitment to one another. God has shown favor to both of you so never forget to thank him for all the great things he makes possible for you as individuals and as a married couple.
Thank you to the author of this article. Nice job!