For friends who seek our advice on marriage or relationships, we are happy to share our thoughts and act as so-called "relationship experts." We might offer advice such as "to win a man's heart, you must first win his stomach" or "impulse is the devil."
The first point is, "If all else fails, we can always get a divorce."
Generally speaking, it's probably inappropriate to suggest to a friend, "Don't worry, divorce isn't out of the question if things really don't work out." You might think you're supporting your friend, but marital conflicts are often temporary. Once the problem is resolved and the couple is back to their loving relationship, how will you face yourself for giving such advice?
The second rule is, "Keep a close eye on the female friends around you."
Don't give your friends advice like, "Keep a close eye on your female friends so your husband won't be stolen away." Instead, offer helpful suggestions to improve your friend's relationship, rather than bringing them negativity. If your friend has a close and loving relationship, external temptations won't pose any real threat.
The third rule is, "Don't marry a woman who earns more money than you."
The idea that a man must be the breadwinner to ensure the family's normal functioning is no longer suitable for today's society. Both partners should find their comfortable place in life based on their own characteristics and abilities; this is the best way to maintain a marriage.
Article 4: "For a happy marriage, it is very important that the wife is a virgin."
The absolute concept of virginity no longer aligns with contemporary societal values regarding marriage and relationships. In contrast, having sound sexual values and a harmonious sex life are the cornerstones of a stable marriage.
Article 5: "Learn from Japanese women; when your husband comes home, serve him tea, water, and slippers."
While being a good wife and mother is undoubtedly a woman's responsibility and obligation in marriage, the specifics of how to "serve" her husband and educate her children vary from person to person. Sometimes, each family's problems cannot be solved with universal methods.
Article Six: "Ignore him for a few days, don't talk to him."
Marriage requires communication; when problems arise, both partners need to be honest and compromise. "Speaking your mind" is key to solving all problems. The road to happiness is never smooth; if you encourage your best friend to engage in a "cold war" in her marriage, that's probably the worst emotional advice you can give.
