A study of 147 couples whose first marriages lasted 20 years or more found that ten traits consistently rose to the top of a list of 59 potential strengths:
1. Lifetime commitment to marriage
2. Loyalty to spouse
3. Strong moral values
4. Respect for spouse as best friend
5. Commitment to sexual fidelity
6. Desire to be a good parent
7. Faith in God and spiritual commitment
8. Desire to please and support spouse
9. Good companion to spouse
10. Willingness to forgive and be forgiven.
Susan S. Larson, M.A.T. in July/August 2003 issue of Spirituality & Health magazine