That was a very nice post by betty http://www.fivedoves.com/letters/sep2006/bettyw926.htm

although I was a bit surprised to read the 6th last line ? " If your parents are still alive and still married .. you are very rare."

well, in most Asian countries and African nations,  Marraiges last for life time and beyond unlike western nations.

It has nothing to do with any spouse being oppressed, I am indian, and Christian and my parents have been happily married for the last 30 years and are old,  It is the same I can say for our nehibours who are Muslims and Hindus too, they also have long and stable and happy families. Most of us are middle class, and have enough to live our daily lives and to be contend with.

So I am not rare :) Thanks to Jesus.