I once wondered what was more important in a relationship: love or like. The word “love” is thrown around so much that it has as much value as an American dollar these days. Well, during my interview with Maurice and Diane Knight, I got my answer which also happens to be the glue that has held this couple together for nearly 50 years: they still “like” each other. Their like for each other have helped them to cherish and appreciate each other despite the challenges over the years, which was no easy task.
The Knights have been together nearly all of their lives, literally and figuratively. They met each other at ages 13 and 15, and wedded at 17 and 19. They really didn’t have a “get to know you” period before getting married. I guess that didn’t matter because they will be celebrating 50 years of marriage in November 2009.
Both of them agree that both partners in a relationship have to like each other for it to work. Nowadays, couples tend to grow apart or fall out of love after a few years together. In fact, Mr. Maurice noted that “people are still paying for weddings while they are going through divorces.” That’s how bad divorces have gotten over the years. It is for this reason that Mr. Maurice and Ms. Diane feel that new couples should get married at City Hall like they did to save time, money, and emotions on weddings that may not last an entire year.
Other lessons in marriage that have kept them together include:
· Not going to bed mad at each other. In all of their years together, they have never slept in different rooms.
· Knowing that marriage is the hardest job they’ll ever have. They advised that people should not go into it if they’re not willing to work.
· Understanding each other to make things work.
· Giving and taking. “Sometimes you’re going to take more than you give.”
· Supporting each other in activities even if they do not participate.
· Never fighting about money.
After that meeting, I was convinced that if you genuinely like your mate, you are likely to put in the time and effort to make your relationship work. The words of wisdom shared by the Knights can apply to any one reading As Not Seen on TV, regardless of relationship status.
Note: It was such a pleasure to meet this precious couple that was referred to me by a fellow line dancer. Initially, Mr. Maurice was against the interview, but Ms. Diane worked her magic. What was really great about this meeting was that their two daughters were in attendance, so this was my first “family” interview for As NOT Seen on TV.
Nice story Marcie. You did a great job in putting together this story about my parents. I know they threw a lot of “knowledge” at you when you came by to pay them a visit but you have condensed it well and got all the meat and potatoes of what they truly feel has kept them together all these years. I feel lucky to have such beautiful parents and even luckier that they are still here to be a testament of what “real love and like” is all about. Thanks again Marcie for making their story known.
Thanks so much Syndy. I enjoyed writing this story, not only because of the beautiful spirits of your parents, but because they answered my question which was amazing. I appreciate all of you guys.
It’s a blessing to see people or couples can be in love after so many years. I know it takes prayer, patience, communication and believing in God to go through anything in life. These words are an inspiration to those who are going through, especially the part (supporting each other in activities even if they do not participate!!!) because there’s a lot of that going around. Plus I’m one who enjoy life every chance I get because nothing is promised to you in life. So, live happy and smile often. As it says in John3:16: For God so love the world that he gave his only begotten son, whosoever believeth in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life. And I believe that in my heart! Having faith in God takes you a long way. but do not forget to believe in Him. I wish this couple many more beautiful years together. May God continue to bless you both.
That was so kind of you. I’ll make sure Syndy sees this.
This is a great story. It’s a shame that more marriages do not last long these days. It’s very important to find someone you like and would work well together with. “Sometimes you’re going to take more than you give.”… people need to understand this goes a long way.
I feel you. I hope this story has an impact on young’uns. Commitment has fallen by the wayside along with genuine giving.
It is beautiful when a married couple can last that long. I had hoped to have a relationship like that. Perhaps this current boyfriend I have had over the past year might be the one? Who knows? Marriage takes a lot. I did it for almost 5 years and the guy just decided he did not want to be married – as if it were a book you can close and put back on the shelf because you decided after 6 chapters it was not good.
Congratulations to the Knights!
Nile, I love your analogy about the book! Have your current guy to read the Knight’s story along with other stories I have on this site. Check under successful relationships. My most favorite is 30 somethings married 10 years or more.
Thank you for sharing the best story ever. Every young couple should read the Knight’s story. Their story just proves what hard work and commitment can do. I love it that they still Like each other. May God continue to keep and bless them.
Congratulations to the Knights.
(My two BFF)
Thank you for sharing your wishes on my blog. They will continue to be blessed.
Every word is true of this couple in its purest form. They are representative of real unconditional love. I have loved and admired them for many years. Their love has steadily influenced everyone around them and is instilled in their two beautiful daughters and granddaughters.
I am proud to be a member of their family as a first cousin.
May Grace and Peace continue to be within them.
Thanks for showing your love on As NOT Seen on TV, Ms. Toi.
What a great tribute. Thank you Syndi for sharing this wonderful story. Your parents look absoutly beautiful.
Praise God
Thanks so much for visiting. Glad you enjoyed it.