Imagine living through “the Great Depression, the Second World War, and the Civil Rights Movement” and eventually witnessing the election of the first African-American president of the USA. Even President Obama wrote them a letter of commendation in 2010!
Zelmyra and Herbert Fisher broke the record for the longest marriage in the Guinness Book of World Records. since their wedding on May 13, 1924. They already broke the record for the longest marriage with 84 years of marriage.
It seems difficult to accomplish this in the world we live in today. The majority of marriages end even before they begin! Research shows that divorce rates for first marriages are 41%, for second marriages 60%, and for third marriages 73%. How then did this couple establish a record by remaining together for so long? How do they fool you?
They were questioned about their coping mechanisms and methods for resolving marital conflicts. The honest answers from the couple who truly cohabited until “death did them part” are as follows:
How did you decide that you two could coexist in this world?
Did you have any apprehension? Our relationship got stronger and more enduring as the days passed. Divorce was never even considered as an option.
How did you know that the person you are married to is the one you were supposed to be with?
We were excellent friends before we got married since we grew up together. Our marriage lasted forever, unlike a friend who is only for life.
Are there any things you would change now that you have been married for more than 80 years?
Nothing would be even slightly changed by us. We simply did what was required for our family and ourselves; our marriage is not a secret. (I believe that’s where the key is…)
What advice would you provide to someone who believes that Mr. Right is actually waiting for them?
Zelmyra: Mine was a short distance away! Keep the faith because he is never too far away; you will know for sure when you meet him.
Which piece of marriage advice have you ever felt was the best?
Respect one another, help one another, and engage in conversation. Be dependable, sincere, and honest. From the bottom of your hearts, love one another.
What are the most crucial characteristics of a good partner?
Zelmyra: A hard worker and a good parent. Although the 1920s were difficult, Herbert wanted the best for us and provided it. I married a good man.
What is your favorite Valentine’s Day memory?
Zelmyra: I cook dinner every night. When Herbert left work early, he surprised me by making dinner for me. He’s a good cook, too! Herbert: I let her know that because I was preparing her dinner, she could relax. The empty dish and the joy on her face changed my day! (This has made my day happier!)
How did you two, who were married at a young age, manage to grow apart while staying a unit?
Everyone who plants a seed and harvests a crop shares in the joy. Even though we are all different, working together, we can do more.
What is your favorite memory from your 85 years of marriage?
Our family tree includes five children, 10 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
Do communication abilities get better over time?
How can you keep your cool under pressure? We converse more now that the kids are older. We can unwind together on the porch or in our rocking chairs.
How did you manage being physically apart for such a long time?
Herbert: We were separated for two months while Z was hospitalized with our fifth child. That was the most difficult period of my life. I would have gone nuts trying to take care of the house and the other kids if Zelmyra’s mother hadn’t helped.
What is the most important thing to keep in mind at the end of a day with a bad relationship?
Never keep score in a marriage; remember that it’s not a game. God has put the two of you together to make a successful team.
How important is war?
literally never! Recognize that it’s okay to hold a different opinion and advocate for what matters most. Learn how to bend, not break!
What unifying quality do you have with everyone else?
We both believe in God and are Christians. Marriage is a commitment to the Lord. We pray for one another and for the group each day.
Zelmyra and Herbert had a wonderful marriage, and we are fortunate to have their advice on marriage. It was clear that 87 years after getting married, they were still very much in love.
A few years after Herbert, who died in 2011 at the age of 105, Zelmyra too passed away in 2013 at the age of 105. When Herbert passed away, the pair had been married for 87 years.
Although it is challenging, lifetime commitment is feasible! Every amount of support and direction is appreciated! If you find any of this wise advice about love to be helpful, please spread it among your friends on social media. It should be well known!
