Opinions differ regarding what a marriage needs to either become strong or stay strong. The following was taken from a list I compiled of ten essential characteristics couples need to build a strong and lasting marriage.
Humor
Being able to laugh, with one another, at each other, or at your circumstances, could just possibly be one of the best ways to weather tough times. It can also help a marriage to last. Humor, lightheartedness and having fun are some of God’s best gifts for any relationship. They give way to happiness, appreciation and serenity, even if only momentarily. These times of spontaneous smiles, giggles, chuckles or raucous laughter relieve stress and ease tension. They bring levity and a sense of contentment to a marriage.
The comedian Milton Burle once said, “Laughter is an instant vacation.”
Not only is it an instantaneous vacation, it’s free and lasts as long as you make it last.
There is great assurance in a relationship when you know your partner has the ability and discernment to use humor in a proper manner, time and place.
When I first met Alcides, one of his characteristics I found myself drawn to was his sense of humor. It was so diverse! He could imitate a variety of accents or individuals. He could make witty commentaries about current events or recite a repertoire of his father’s vintage jokes on command, one right after another. He could even make light of the mistakes he made in English (since it is his second language). He was so funny. Or, was I simply in love? Being able to laugh at your husband’s sense of humor is a good gauge to the level of closeness in your relationship.
There are two things that are almost impossible for a wife to do if there’s a wedge between her and her husband: have sex with him or laugh at his jokes.
What do the two have in common? Laughter, inside jokes, and goofiness, they are all a form of intimacy. They are the product of months, years, decades together. They communicate, “I know you. I know how you think, I know what you’re about to say. I know you and I love you.” Humor allows us to relax a little and let down our guard, even when life is not perfect. Our time together just seems more enjoyable when we’re able to laugh, no matter what else is going on.
