Reflections on marriage

Next Wednesday I'm giving a presentation to our ward Relief Society on the "spiritual foundations of a joyful marriage". I'm currently in the "review of literature" phase and thought I'd share some snippets that struck me as interesting or insightful.

--"I am satisfied that a happy marriage is not so much a matter of romance as it is an anxious concern for the comfort and well-being of one's companion." (Gordon B. Hinckley)
--"Many couples permit their marriages to become stale and their love to grow cold like old bread or worn-out jokes or cold gravy. Certainly the foods most vital for love are consideration, kindness, thoughtfulness, concern, expressions of affection, embraces of appreciation, admiration, pride, companionship, confidence, faith, partnership, equality, and interdependence." (Spencer W. Kimball)
--A lack of time in a marriage is a greater problem than a lack of money
--"Our love for [our] spouse...is reflected most powerfully in our thoughts, our words, and our deeds." (David A. Bednar)
--"When you are forgiving you can drop the burden of resentment and anger. It is a better way to experience each day." (Larry Jensen)
--Problems occur in marriage when we violate gospel principles. Redemptive healing and peace comes through obedience to gospel principles.
--"God designed marriage to make us both happy and holy". (Carol Heffernan)