Written to share the wisdom gleanedfrom 56 years of married life, thisbook isa levelheaded marriage manual with supporting commentary from a nationally-known family therapist. Providing a portrait of aremarkable and productive egalitarian marriage, as wellas thoughtful speculationaboutthe high rate ofdivorce in America today,the discussionholdsthat, no matter how dull it sounds, a rationalapproach works best inrelationships.Advising young peopleto value characterover charm andgenerosityover selfishness when choosing a mate, the book also discussesthe bigtopics ofmoney, religion, sex,gender roles, child-rearing, and dreams for the future with useful andtouching insights about honest and loving communication. Takinga broad andbasic view of marriage andavoidinggimmicks and trendy theories,this guide offerssolid advice aswell as a big pep talkon the happiness—not the hassle—of a committed relationship.