Couple's Story:My parents got married on December 23, 1990, both at the age of 23. It was an arranged marriage, a process set up by relatives. Common in that era and age, both my parents felt comfortable with this idea because it was the “norm.” There was a strict marriage system, especially as couples engaged in love marriages were looked down upon. It was common to marry at a young age, while both couples were pursuing post-secondary education. Engaged at 21, my parents communicated before marriage through love letters. These letters were a method for them to understand each other, discover their common interests and their personalities. Both their parents have been using the rule of patience in their relationship for 25 years. EXPAND Roles: Roles take into account fluctuating power levels in the relationship, where the couple changes power levels depending on the situation, also known as the "Power Dance." Couples must negotiate how they will share power to avoid a power struggle. When it comes to children, my mother has the upper hand; as she states, women can interact better with other women. There is a natural instinct to control situations when it comes to situations……………. Relationships: Relationships go through a series of stages of development and change to meet individuals' needs and conflicts within their lives. However, couples must allow time for their relationship to mature, while being open to change. One of the crises that arose was financing my sister's college education. Not knowing that she would want to pursue post-secondary education outside of the Greater Toronto Area meant developing an action plan in a short period of time. My parents changed themselves by working more hours, discussing alternative options with their bank advisor, etc. It was a stressful time, but it was overcome by collectively negotiating possible options and deciding what was best. In this conflict, both points of view were heard and taken into account. Additionally, it allowed my parents to communicate effectively, beyond discussing utility bills and changes in the child's life, but more about their own hopes, dreams, and worries. With open discussion, this allows for trust and commitment, the essential foundation of a successful marriage. I believe that the time they spend for each other makes their relationship flourish. Having two children and an extended family makes for a busy schedule, but the rituals of evening walks or their inner philosophy of patience with each other keep this relationship stable. They take the time to discuss their feelings and bond as a couple, building their relationship step by step. There is always an element of strength present, to combat obstacles along the way, which makes this approach successful..