Married? Here's some advice for men from the book "How to Survive Your Marriage" (Hundreds of Heads Books, www.hundredsofheads.com, $13.95), straight from people who've done it:
“Remember how many times your mom cleaned your room, or how often she worked to put a meal on the table for you and your family? Do you remember how many times you thanked her? I didn’t think so. Well that just isn’t going to cut it in your marriage. Your wife is definitely going to work harder than you to keep your home life together, whether she is home full time or working as well; so thank her. Realize how much she does for you, how important it is, and just say thanks.”
— Anonymous, Minneapolis, Minn.
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“You probably shouldn’t go out to any strip clubs after you’re married — even if you tell her you went somewhere else.”
— Rick, Atlanta, Ga.
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“Every year, the police ski races are held in Vail [Colo.], and every year, I go. About 10 years ago, however, a week before the races were scheduled to begin, I found out my wife had been nominated for Employee of the Year, and, like a stupid, selfish idiot, I decided to go skiing instead of to her presentation ceremony because I’d already paid for the trip and it was a tradition. She wasn’t happy, and although she’s only brought it up once since then, I regret that decision to this day, because the internal guilt I’ve experienced has been far worse. My actions sent the message that the ski races were more important to me than her, which isn’t true. If I could do one thing over in our marriage, that would be it.”
— John Cooke, Greeley, Colo.
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“Speaking mostly to men here: Resist the temptation to start a serious flirtation or have an affair. Instead, look directly in front of you. There may well be more there than you realize. If something is wrong, it may have to do with your own emotional issues. Confront them in therapy or with whatever vehicle works. An enduring marriage requires that each person feel confident and comfortable with himself/herself.”
— Anonymous, Madison, Wisc.
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“Pick up after yourself. Wipe down the counter after you’re done shaving. Put your towel on the hook instead of the floor. The little things help.”
— Tina M. Coy, El Cajon, Calif.
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“Women remember everything, and they always know when you’re lying.”
— Richard Hall, Kennesaw, Ga.
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© 2008, Hundreds of Heads Books, Inc.