She has been married for 34 years!
That’s eternity compared to what obtains in today’s marriages.
Just after celebrating the 34th anniversary of her wedding to Mr Sonnie on Saturday, July 29, the Genevieve Magazine founder and publisher shared words young couples should take to heart.
She said, “What Soni and I have has taken all of 34 years to build.. So don’t for one minute think it happened overnight.”
“We have walked on that street called hope but having each other makes it bearable. A successful marriage doesn’t happen over night it requires sacrifice and it takes effort and nurturing.”
Then she talked about ‘impressing their audience.
“You want a good marriage? Work at it! Young couples seem to just want everything NOW NOW because they have to prove a point and impress their audience and in the process put a lot of pressure on their marriage.
‘A [good] Marriage takes two, it thrives on love in action not in mere words. Marriage requires commitment, empathy , TRUST (leave each other’s phones ALONE) don’t marry anyone you cannot trust!
‘Don’t overburden each other with over expectations and believe me the grass is not greener on the other side; avoid comparing your marriage/partner to others that seem rosier; water your own garden! In life everything is turn by turn.
‘Ojukokoro [Greed] is a vice that destroys relationships! If you both can’t afford it then you don’t need it.
‘Let [your] marriage grow organically. Do everything in love..don’t overburden each other with unrealistic demands.
‘Marriage won’t necessarily fix a bad relationship especially if your partner has habits that he/she won’t let go. Fix those issues before you say I DO!’
Also touching on domestic violence, Betty said marriage won’t fix a partner who’s been abusive before your wedding day.
She said ‘If he or she is violent and slaps you around now, marriage won’t fix that, if he is insecure because you are a boss woman, that insecurity may linger and lead to resentment with time.
‘Be careful who you marry..don’t set yourself up because ‘all your friends are getting married..’ That’s a trap!
‘Don’t over try to change your partner into who they are not; marriage isn’t about changing your partners essence rather it is about finding the good in each other.
‘Celebrate each bite size milestone. A successful marriage starts from the foundation .. If the foundation is not built on CHRIST how can it withstand the storms?’
To young men and women who are still single Mrs Irabor advised:
‘To my young daughters and sons out there I say, don’t despise the days of humble beginnings and don’t allow anyone or society force you into a marriage you’re not ready for.
‘If you marry In haste you will repent at leisure.. As for me, I believe marriage rocks ..but get ready to work it.’