Other factors, such as people who do not dress in a tzniusdik manner, may also invite problems.
During this summer season, many families are spending time in the Catskills. In situations in which bungalows are in close proximity, people are more observant of what others are doing. This can lead to comparisons. Married people have been known to say, “Wow, did you see the amazing dessert your friend made?” and “Wow, did you notice how much her husband helps with the kids?” Some often see good things in others while not seeing potentially problematic issues arising from their observations.
I hope couples realize that each person must work at making his or her spouse a top priority. This will enable marriages to succeed in all respects. If a married person accentuates his or her spouse’s good qualities while always maintaining that spouse’s best interests at heart, the institution of marriage will be more successful. Rather than employing an attitude of what your spouse can do for you, married men and women should adopt the practice of doing what’s best for his or her spouse. This increases the chances of a happier and more satisfied marriage.
Competition only enters a marriage if allowed to by either party. To avoid this, a married person needs to make every effort to be as good a person as possible – via good middos while also looking attractive to his or her spouse. In short, go the extra mile to look beautiful – inwardly and outwardly. Hatzlachah!
