12 years ago this January, we made promises among family and friends that represented our commitment to a happy life together. But a happy married life is definitely much more complicated than “in sickness and in health,” especially when the married couple runs a business together. Last night, John and I got to talking about the kind of vows we would likely recite today.
I promise to share with you …
I’ll let you use my cel phone charger when you leave yours at home, even though I probably won’t get it back later.
I promise to take risks for you …
I’ll upgrade my software first, so I can tell you if there are any bugs before you do it.
I promise to try to keep our family healthy.
I will make sure we call it a night … sometimes before it’s morning.
I promise to trust …
I’ll not question your classification of vendors, within reason (but if “salon” is in the name, we might need to talk)
I promise to support you …
I’ll keep the kids silently entertained when a client calls after school.
I promise to give …
up the wireless card when you need it (or buy smart phones so we can both be connected simultaneously).
I promise to do my share …
I’ll drive so you can get your work done in the passenger seat.
I promise to be considerate …
I’ll keep gas in the car so we don’t run late to a meeting.
I promise to be kind …
I will not send all of our high maintenance customers’ e-mails your way.
I promise to empathize …
when you’re heartbroken about losing a client you “just knew we had”.
I promise to rejoice …
when you get a new laptop before I do (even though I secretly have new laptop envy!).
I promise to be responsible …
and charge the camera.
I promise to communicate …
I’ll have conversations with you about something other than work.
I promise to make time for us …
I’ll put date night on my calendar, and keep that date as I would a meeting with a client.
Can you relate to any of these? Or do you have some new vows of your own?
