My parents have been married for quite a bit of time...okay lots of years! One wonders, how do they do it and manage to still be in love?

My mom always says: "You need to like someone before you can love them!" And it's true!

My parents taught me that saying "I love you" is not the only way to show someone you love them. Even if it is rarely said, does not mean they do not love you. Actions count, they really do!

My dad has this belief that getting someone flowers all the time is not essential because he grows my mom a garden full of them. It shows that he can care and nurture for something he cares about and plus, the flowers don't wither away within a day because they stay where they are supposed to be.

They showed me it's natural to fight and that is a necessary way to communicate their feelings.

My mom believes that fighting at home is okay and worth it because you have to live with those people. So, when dealing with people not within the family, at the end of the day "you don't have to go home with them" (as my mom says). So you move on. It is a valuable mentality to have.

Another thing is that relationships are only as good as the effort you put into it. We all have that lovey-dovey phase, but that does not last when we reach certain obstacles. Leaning on each other and learning how to help one another (being selfless) is key. It is a two-way street.

Above all, love doesn't die. My parents are still fun and silly no matter how old they get. Your personalities may develop, but they don't change that drastically.

They showed me what a good husband and wife look like.

But, what they really taught me, is what I deserve and what everyone deserves! It just takes some work.