You may think of love as a timeline. Celebrating 50 years together! What if I told you that it doesn't matter how long you have been together, but the quality of the relationship. Quality does not mean zero fighting. It does not mean everything is as smooth as butter.
Relationships are tough, but love is kind. Also everyone loves differently. Some people love by showing excess affection. Others show love by doing small things like taking out the trash. Then there are people who show they love you by buying gifts. None of this is wrong and the way your partner shows love is completely unique to your relationship. If they treat you exactly like they have treated past lovers; odds are they are not in love with you. When you are in love new patterns form. The entire universe becomes a big cluster of first time experiences. You will come out of your shell like you never have before.
Unfortunately love can be mistaken for manipulation which is a form of emotional abuse. Love can also be true too. Is your partner working together with you? Are you building each other up instead of down? Do you feel like your relationship is equal? Do you compromise above all odds? If you said yes to these questions, then you are probably in the best relationship you have ever had. Congratulations!
Chemistry is another thing about love that is rarely discussed. If there is no chemistry, then what is the point of all of those years being together? It is not about having things in common or similar hobbies. If you are in love with someone you will be connected by the soul. You will love that person for all that they are, what they will become and will love them long after they are gone. Having complimenting energies is another indicator.
Love is the glue that holds people together, without it we would all be alone and fall apart from the inside out. We are social creatures who are meant to love, strive off of love. I am hoping that someday everyone can find a partner they are meant to flourish with and make it to that 50 year mark without even realizing it. Cherish each other, cherish every moment because all you need is love.