A judge was interviewing a woman regarding her pending divorce, and asked, “What are the grounds for your divorce?”

She replied, “About four acres and a nice little home in the middle of the property with a stream running by.”

“No,” he said, “I mean what is the foundation of this case?

“It is made of concrete, brick and mortar,” she responded.

“I mean,” he continued, “What are your relations like?’

“I have an aunt and uncle living here in town, and so do my husband’s parents.”

The judge said, “Do you have a real grudge?”

“No,” she replied, “We have a two-car carport and have never really needed one.”

“Please,” he tried again, “is there any infidelity in your marriage?’

“Yes, both my son and daughter have stereo sets. We don’t necessarily like the music, but the answer to your questions is yes.”

“Ma’am, does your husband ever beat you up?”

“Yes,” she responded, “about twice a week he gets up earlier than I do.”

Finally, in frustration, the judge asked, “Lady, why do you want a divorce?”

“Oh, I don’t want a divorce,” she replied. “I’ve never wanted a divorce. My husband does. He said he can’t communicate with me.”

Moral of the story: Although we believe finances and sex to be the two main causes of divorce, there are a number of other factors that can be the true catalyst; communication being just one of them.

It seems more and more that the root of these issues boils down to a deeper selfish mindset. Whether it be what we spend our money on, how we take care of our bodies, or how we take care of our partners – the more selfless we can become with those we love, the stronger our relationships shall become.

Keith Fernandez