March 22, 2000
For many people, creating a long-lasting marriage is a puzzle they'll never solve.
But as News Specialist Ruth Todd explains in today's Family Now report, for some Utah couples, the idea that marriage can last a lifetime is not far-fetched.
The institution of marriage has changed over the years.
Although divorce is on the decline, Americans are less likely to say "I do" than ever before.
But in some communities, an effort is underway to strengthen marriage.
Fern McBride: "WE'RE JUST OLD PEOPLE THAT BELIEVE IN COOPERATION WITH EACH OTHER."
Cleo and Fern McBride are the oldest living married couple in Davis County.
This year, they're celebrating their 72nd wedding anniversary.
They say the key to a good marriage is listening and understanding.
Fern McBride: "BE THOUGHTFUL OF EACH OTHER, BE SURE YOU LOVE EACH OTHER BEFORE YOU GET MARRIED, TOO."
Cleo McBride: "BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF AND THEN YOU'LL BE HONEST WITH EVERYONE ELSE."
Their advice to today's couples:
Cleo McBride: "NEGATISM NEVER GETS ANYBODY ANYWHERE."
Fern McBride: "DON'T BE TOO SELFISH AND DON'T EXPECT TOO MUCH AT FIRST. BUT BE WILLING TO WORK AND BE WILLING TO COOPERATE."
Several Davis County groups say the McBrides are a good example of what keeps families together.
The Davis County Council and school district's annual conference this weekend focuses on families, and keeping marriages strong.
For more information on Davis County's Conference on families Click Here.
