More importantly, he began to understand that asking for help did not make him weak.
Months later, we invited Mark and his family to dinner. His daughter was doing well, and the atmosphere around the table was filled with laughter.
At one point, Mark raised his glass and thanked Daniel for being there when his family needed support.
Daniel immediately tried to change the subject, just as he always did when someone praised him.
I reached for his hand beneath the table.
This time, I wanted him to understand that he did not need to hide the good things he did—or the difficult things he endured.
He deserved to be supported, too.
The Lesson I Learned About Marriage
Before that afternoon, I believed that a strong marriage meant being there for each other when life became difficult.
I still believe that.
But I learned something more: being there for someone also means allowing them to see you when you are frightened, uncertain, or ashamed.
