There's no 'I' in love

The characteristics of marriage include loyalty, trust, intimacy, and communication, but often downplayed or overlooked is the importance of support between spouses.

Though society makes it easier and somewhat more acceptable for a wife to stand behind a husband who is doing better than her because 'behind every successful man is a strong woman,' little credit is given to those men who, though not as celebrated as their female counterparts, nothing makes them happier than seeing their women shine.

"In some cases, where wives are more prominent than their spouses, the male ego can take a bruising. Not every man can accept cases where their wives acquire much more attention than they do, and some resent same. For me, my wife's success is my success and I take great pride in supporting her and her projects," said senior TV sports producer Brian Cuff.

Four years ago, Cuff married the love of his life, media personality, events host, radio announcer and lecturer Basillia Barnaby-Cuff, and together they produced a beautiful daughter.

Cuff's family is his pride and it is no secret as he publicly celebrates his wife's and daughter's every step.

Support, for him, means having someone to help you along the way, someone to refuel you when you're drained and someone to tell you the truth and offer constructive criticism, despite the cost.

According to him: "A supportive spouse means a much more relaxed household. It's about understanding the roles and purposes and seeing that it's not about 'living in shadows' but being supportive. It means creating an atmosphere to help inspire and encourage due to the love and care that exists."

Teamwork makes the dream work, so regarding your spouse as competition instead of a partnership would be unwise, despite how well off your wife is.

"I believe that marriage is based on love and sacrifice. This means two have become one. Any event, job, or situation that comes her way deserves both our attention and vice versa. Besides, having two minds tackling issues and four eyes perusing documents gives you (as a team) an edge," Cuff said.

The devoted man also told Family and Religion that it takes one being willing to put another first and considering what they need and offering same to achieve different tasks.

"Support also shows that I'm not afraid to let you grow and expand, and also shows that your expansion is my expansion. I've learned that it is OK to be the strong (supportive) man behind the successful woman," he said adding that his wife equally supports and encourages his dreams, pushing him to heights he has never imagined.