English
EspañolI am my spouse´s number one fan. Why? Because I am the one who loves and appreciates them the most. If it is not me then, who? Would it not be foolish to leave that spot open for a third party?
Text
“True love values the other person’s achievements.” (The Joy of Love, n.95). “The family must always be a place where, when something good happens to one of its members, they know that others will be there to celebrate it with them.” (The Joy of Love, n.110)
Commentary
When a husband or wife does well at work, it is recognized in that environment. They are rewarded or promoted and even celebrated among colleagues in the workspace or office. Would it not be abnormal and strange – more of a disappointment that discourages – if colleagues were happier than one´s spouse and no one celebrated the accomplishments at home.
It is not an acceptable excuse – although it is frequent – that this does not excite the other spouse too much because he or she does not understand what the goal achieved consists of, or it goes unnoticed due to forgetfulness or disinterest. In reality, if we want to call things as they are, no euphemisms or sweeteners, this “forgetfulness and ignorance” is carelessness and unkindness. They can be defects in the love owed to the spouse, which can cause much damage: disappointment, resentments, and estrangement if they become a terrible habit.
If you love, you are aware of the life of the one you love. You are the first to rejoice in their happiness. You are the first to share their sorrows. Do not deceive yourself. Therefore, you are the first to rejoice in their triumphs and to celebrate them at home in the best possible way. Do not allow yourself to be apathetic, indifferent, and much less belittle the merit or prize achieved.
If you, their spouse, their most intimate companion, do not celebrate them, who will do it? For whom are you reserving this task? Do not lament the bad weed – estrangement, coldness, appearances in front of other people – that you have sown and fertilized with your carelessness.
