by B. Ann Moran

Created on: February 13, 2008

Every Princess is waiting for her Knight in shinning armor to live happily ever after.....only problem is.....it ain't happening. Fantasy and romance are nice but let's get real. No one lives in a fantasy world. Unfortunately we live in a world where the Knights have rust on their armor and Princesses aren't always that pretty and perfect. Romantic opportunity may mean more than you think; read on for some wisdom from a married lady of several years.

Real Love has more worth than mere romance and fantasy. It has to do with sacrifice and most people have no idea what real love is anymore. I know it took me a few decades of marriage to figure it all out and for God to teach me what it really is. Dying to self is not a popular idea. All we hear today is "Will you make me happy?" or "I'll love you until you piss me off." Notice these are all about "self" and have nothing to do with the other person. A lot of divorces are about selfishness; "he doesn't make me happy" (News flash!...it isn't his job to make you happy!); "she doesn't satisfy me like the magazines and TV say she should" (me, me, me...what about ME; have you tried to look at her like a person instead of a play toy?). Wow...it is a wonder anyone survives a relationship today. By the way, buying your sweetheart a sexy outfit is all about YOU, not her. Get a clue...

For Valentines Day this year try something different. Try to find out what your partner wants and try to fulfill that need (roses and chocolate, dinner, concert, whatever). What a concept! Get your "self" out of the equation; die to your wants and needs; start to give to others what they need and you will get back ten-fold. That is the real SECRET - not that New Age DVD "The Secret" going around about how to find your "self" and make your own reality happen by mental energy manipulation. That is the Church of Self at its best. Try the Christian variety of love; you might be surprised at the results. Read Corinthians 13:4 and following for instructions from the Creator of the Universe. He just might know more than you about love and life. Real Romance will follow. My husband knows me well. I don't want those boxed chocolates and roses; give me one exotic flower and a gourmet chocolate dessert from a specialty shop along with a gift certificate to Barnes and Noble (books are my passion). He is a wise man and knows the rewards outweigh the cost of the gifts that fit my personality.

-Married 35+ Years and still loving....Happy Valentines Day honey!

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