Love and marriage - these two words seemingly go together. However, one can have love without marriage as well as have marriage without love. Most people find that one special person, fall in love, and get married without giving any real thought about the meaning of love in marriage. So, what exactly is love in a marriage?

Love in marriage means accepting your spouse for who they are without trying to change them. In most cases, the person you marry has the same personality and habits as when you were dating. As such, you know who you are getting when you say “I do”. So, accept your spouse and do not waste energy trying to change your spouse. Instead, spend that energy on something fun like preparing a romantic dinner, or, better yet, making dinner reservations.

Another aspect of love in a marriage is appreciation for the little things that your spouse does for you. Maybe your spouse puts the dishes in the dishwasher or helps out with the kids. Show your appreciation by saying “thank you” or fixing a favorite meal. Remembering to acknowledge and appreciate the little things not only helps to keep the love in your marriage, but makes your spouse feel special and loved.

Spending time alone together is yet another aspect of love in a marriage. Whether you go on a weekly date night or stay in and watch a movie together, spending time together allows you to connect and remember why you love each other. It is important, especially if you have children, to make special time just for each other. So, call a babysitter or put the kids to bed early and talk about your day.

Sharing hobbies and interests goes a long way to strengthen love in a marriage. Having things that you do together not only allows you to spend time together, but also gives you things to talk about with each other outside of the every day happenings of life. Whether it is playing video games, watching television, cooking, or sports find something that you both enjoy and spend time doing them.

Finally, small displays of affection go a long way to show your spouse that you love them thereby solidifying the love in your marriage. Hold hands, sit close, or say “I love you” as often as possible. While big displays of love take some time to plan and say “I love you” in a big way, they only happen a few times a year. Smaller displays of affection can take place on a daily basis and remind your spouse that you are always thinking of them.

Now, The question "What is love in a marriage" is one with many answers and none of them are necessarily wrong. Even if things are not going well in your marriage right now you have the power to make it everything you dream of. So, explore the question carefully, research it and find out what love truly means to you.