A Good Marriage and a Game of Black Jack

        I suppose you wonder how these two are connected. After many decades of a good marriage and some card games years ago, I know a little about both subjects.

        Marriage is like a game of Black Jack. You have to appreciate the hand you hold. My wife and I only have a few absolute rules. We don’t expect each other to be perfect.

        If your spouse doesn’t do drugs, sleep with other people, spend money like a drunken sailor, or frequent the bars over in the big city, then you have a hand of about eighteen. Better hold it. If you’re lucky and they make good soup and love music, you have a hand of twenty. Any fool knows in Black Jack not to draw another card with that kind of hand.

        I realize twenty-one is perfect, but that’s too much to ask for, and can’t be done over the long haul. I don’t see any point to ask for what I know I can’t deliver myself. Ask for perfection, draw another card, and see what happens. Sure loss. You’ll end up with no hand to hold at all.

        My best doctor advice for the day: If you have a hand of eighteen or better I’d hold it close and be thankful for what you have.

Dr. B

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