I never said it was easy.

Submitted by Grace (United States), Jan 30, 2007 at 19:15

Hi Steph.

Relationships are difficult enough, and I know that cultural differences certainly come into play and can make life difficult. I had to make a decision and chose to learn about the culture and understand my husband, or simply call it a mistake. As you know, I chose to make it work. I went the extra mile but understand that my husband, although turkish has his own experiences which have made him who he is. My husband's career took him to many different countries prior to our meeting which exposed him to different cultures. These experiences prepared him to learn how to live with a woman not of his culture.

My husband calls himself a Muslim and attends the mosque from time to time, but he believes that there is but one God. I am catholic and even have an Irish Cross over my door. He has NEVER objected. My husband may share certain behaviorial patterns as yours but his experiences in life have taught him how to handle things differently. You can tell that my husband is open-minded but from time to time his "turkish" shows and I let him know that he acted out of character.

I know that my husband is proud of being Turkish but he also objects to how certain men, regardless of their culture (especially turkish), treat their spouses. He is constantly saying if one is not happy just leave and don't continue to torment another. Marriage in general is not always easy but love always prevails. I wish you peace and happiness. It sounds like you have many difficult decisions to make for yourself and I am confident that you will make the right choices. Thank you for sharing your story with all of us. Grace

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