This is a beautifully poetic verse and very true, in our opinion. I hasten to add that we're not pushing any particular creed or belief system on this website; however, we don't throw the philosophical baby out with the bathwater, either! So, whether or not you're religious in any way, let's break it down as to how this verse applies to you and your marriage.

• Love is patient

Just because your husband uses another bank's ATM and incurs unnecessary finance charges that drive you crazy doesn't mean he doesn't care about you! Regardless of the issue, be patient with your spouse, they are fallible just like the rest of us.

• Love is kind

This one is BIG! Always, always, ALWAYS treat your spouse kindly; after all, you expect the same in return, yes?

• Love does not envy

If you are jealous that your spouse gets to stay home all day with the kids while you go out to work, remember; they have to stay home with the kids, while you get to go out to work! Don't fall victim to the "grass is always greener" syndrome.

• Love does not boast

Nobody likes a braggart, so don't make a grand announcement every time you wash the dishes or change a diaper. Whether they comment or not, chances are your partner has noticed and appreciates it.

• Love is not proud

Learn how to say you're sorry, learn to recognize when you're wrong, and most importantly, learn how to forgive.

• Love is not rude

Your spouse is the person that you expect to be there for you no matter what. Insults or verbal abuse of any kind can emotionally damage your loved one, and marriage, severely.

• Love is not self seeking

Always work together; you're a team! It's important to have individual goals, but not at the expense of your relationship.

• Love is not easily angered

Learn to listen and have patience. You expect your spouse not to be rude or angry with you, so make sure you return the favor. Anger rarely, if ever, helps any situation.

• Love keeps no record of wrongs

Let go of past grievances and start each day anew. Don't keep a mental "score" of past wrongs that you can fling back at your spouse in an argument, learn to let them go.

• Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth

Don't keep secrets from your spouse! If you are doing things you can't tell your spouse you need to STOP and get help (see the resources section of our website). In a strong relationship, there should be nothing you can't tell your spouse.

• Love always protects

When you get married, your spouse becomes your top priority. Remember, you're not married to your mother, father, siblings or friends - your spouse's opinions, wants, and needs come first over all else.

• Love always trusts

A strong marriage knows no jealousy and or mistrust. When you reach this stage, a whole new world of loving acceptance opens up to you both.

• Love always hopes

OK, so today isn't the day your marriage is 'perfect' ... but you're reading this, so today is the day you can start down the path to a better marriage!

• Love always perseveres

Even if you're not there in a year, or five years, you can have a happy marriage. It takes hard work and resolve, but it can and will happen if you stick with it!