Dearest Dr. Laura,

My parents were very bad role models. When it was time for me to get married I thanked them for showing me everything not to do, to have a good marriage. You can learn from a bad example as well as a good one. The key to a good marriage that endures isn't that bad stuff doesn't happen. It's how the two people handle it when it does and it will.

We are human beings and are far from perfect. My wife and I have been married for 38 years. Every day I leave for work and it's the highlight of my day to come home to my wife and it's the same for her. This is not luck, this is two people that respect, admire and love each enough to have honest communication with each other no matter how uncomfortable it is; before it turns into world war three.

Live long and prosper---go forth, and have a nice day!

With utmost respect,

"A Straight-Shooter"