Alan (83) and Nancy (81) Morgan, residents from Strubenvale, are proud to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary this year on December 21.
The parents to three boys and grandparents to four grandchildren sat down with the Springs Advertiser to talk about marriage and how they make it work.
The couple, originally from Wales, met at work while being employed by the same company. They say they have no regrets in all their years of marriage.
“When we got married, we were just like any other young couple, we struggled. We did all that we could to make things work.
“Ten years later we decided to pack our bags, take our two sons who were very young at that time and come to South Africa for better opportunities,” says Alan.
When asked about the challenges of marriage, they both answered that honesty is what seems to be lacking in newer marriages.
“Nobody is perfect and we each come with our own faults that make us difficult to be with, but that is not an excuse to give up. Nancy and I have had our ups and downs, but it has been more up than down,” proclaims Alan.
“Young couples are also so quick to give up and run away from their problems instead of sitting down and facing them together. Either they don’t marry at all, or they are quick to get a divorce,” commented Nancy.
Nancy was also proud to say she had an amazing husband and spoke about how he helps and supports her even now in their later years.
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“I will be cleaning the house and tending to the garden and Alan isn’t far behind. He is always there to help,” said Nancy.
She also proclaimed that the secret to having a happy marriage is having a strong support system and when your children are happy.
Alan was quick to add that Nancy’s happiness was his secret to their happy marriage.
“Marriage isn’t a joke, it is beautiful and life-long. Here’s to another 60 years together.”
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