Forty years sounds like a long time, but when you’re with someone who loves you deeply, it doesn’t feel like time at all.
It feels like a series of moments—some ordinary, some extraordinary—all stitched together with love. It’s in the way he apologizes first after an argument or how he encourages me to chase my dreams, even when they seem a little out there. It’s knowing he’s there in the tough times, the quiet times, and every time in between.
Sometimes, we get so caught up in looking for dramatic displays of affection that we miss the quiet signs that say everything. These aren’t always flashy or loud, but they’re the most telling.
If you’re wondering whether your partner’s love is built to last, here are 10 signs I’ve seen in my husband every day for four decades—proof that a man’s love, when true, doesn’t fade.
1) He listens to you
In a world where everyone is so busy, it’s easy to forget the importance of simply listening.
But after 40 years of marriage, I can tell you that one of the strongest signs of enduring love is his willingness to listen.
When a man truly loves you, he will take the time to listen to you — really listen. He will give you his undivided attention because your words are important to him.
Take note if he remembers what you’ve said, even if it was just a passing comment. It shows that he values your voice and cherishes every word.
Just as importantly, he respects your opinions and is genuinely interested in what you have to say. This is not only a sign of love but also of deep respect.
2) He includes you in his future plans
When a man is in love, he can’t imagine his future without you in it. This has been true in my own marriage, even after 40 years.
Let me give you an example. A few years ago, my husband started planning a trip to Europe. From the very beginning, he made it clear that this wasn’t just his trip — it was ours. He included me in every decision, from the countries we would visit to the hotels we would stay in.
I loved the fact that he saw us experiencing these new places together. That he wanted to create these memories with me.
This inclusion wasn’t limited to our travel plans. Whether it was a decision about our home renovation or future financial plans, I was always part of the conversation.
3) He shows you affection in public
Public displays of affection can be a divisive topic — some people love them, others shy away from them.
But one thing is certain, when a man loves you deeply, he isn’t afraid to show it, no matter who’s watching.
Research has found that couples who engage in PDA share stronger bonds. This isn’t about over-the-top displays, but rather simple gestures like holding hands, a gentle arm around your shoulder, or a quick peck on the cheek.
These gestures might seem small, but they’re a man’s way of saying “I’m proud to be with you” and “I want the world to know you’re mine”.
4) He supports your dreams
True love isn’t just limited to loving someone for who they are today, but also for who they want to become.
When a man is in love, he doesn’t just support your dreams — he believes in them. He’s your biggest cheerleader, encouraging you to pursue your goals and aspirations, no matter how big or small.
He understands that your dreams are an important part of who you are. And rather than feeling threatened or insecure about them, he embraces them and even helps you achieve them.
Whether it’s going back to school, starting a new business, or running a marathon, a man who loves you will stand by your side and provide the support and encouragement you need.
His belief in you not only boosts your confidence but also strengthens your relationship. His support is proof of his enduring love for you.
5) He apologizes when he’s wrong
Nobody’s perfect, and we all make mistakes. But when a man truly loves you, he’s not afraid to admit when he’s wrong and say sorry.
Apologizing requires humility and shows emotional maturity. It means he values your feelings over his pride. Winning an argument is never as important as maintaining harmony in the relationship.
If your man is quick to apologize after a misunderstanding or a mistake, it shows that he cares more about your happiness than being right.
His willingness to make amends is a clear indicator of his enduring love for you.
6) He’s there for you in tough times
Life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes, it throws curveballs at us when we least expect them.
But if a man truly loves you, he’ll stand by your side through thick and thin.
During difficult times, whether it’s a health scare, a career setback, or a personal loss, he offers his unwavering support. He doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff but instead steps up to be your rock.
He stands by you not because he has to, but because he wants to. He shares your burden and helps you navigate through the storm.
His presence in these challenging moments speaks volumes about his love for you. It shows that his commitment to you goes beyond the good times — he’s there for you in the tough times too.
7) He compromises for your happiness
Love is about balance, and sometimes that means making compromises. In our 40 years of marriage, I’ve learned that when a man truly loves you, he’s willing to set aside his own needs or wants for your happiness.
For instance, my husband isn’t a big fan of musicals. But he knows how much I love them. So, every once in a while, he’ll surprise me with tickets to a show.
He doesn’t do it because he’s suddenly developed a love for Broadway. He does it because he loves to see me happy. His compromise is a testament to his love for me.
Compromising doesn’t mean always giving up what you want. It means finding a middle ground where both parties feel valued and loved. If your man often compromises for your happiness, it’s a strong sign of his enduring love for you.
8) He gives you space
While togetherness is essential in a relationship, so is individuality.
You might think that a man who loves you would want to spend every waking moment with you, but that’s not always the case.
True love respects boundaries and understands the importance of personal space. A man who loves you will value your need for alone time or time with friends and family without him.
He acknowledges that you’re an individual with your own needs and interests.
Giving you space doesn’t mean he loves you any less. In fact, it’s a sign of trust, respect, and love.
It shows that he’s confident in your relationship and values your independence.
9) He takes an interest in your interests
When a man loves you, he may not share all your hobbies or passions, but he shows genuine interest in them because they’re important to you.
Whether it’s your love for painting, your passion for cooking, or your weekend yoga classes, he makes an effort to understand why these things make you happy.
He might even join you occasionally, not because he’s suddenly become a yoga enthusiast, but because he enjoys seeing you in your element.
Taking an interest in your interests is a way of showing respect for your individuality. It’s a sign that he values what makes you unique and is invested in your personal happiness.
10) He says “I love you” — and means it
Actions speak louder than words, but when it comes to love, words also matter.
A man who truly loves you will not shy away from expressing his feelings.
But it’s not enough to just say “I love you”. You need to say it sincerely and consistently. Say it not just in the moments of joy and romance, but also in the ordinary, everyday moments.
Final thoughts
Lasting love isn’t loud—it’s steady. It’s in the way he remembers the smallest details about you or makes plans with you in mind, even decades into the relationship.
It’s the love that shows up in quiet, unshakable ways, like standing by you during hard times or giving you the space to be fully yourself.
These 10 signs may seem simple, but they carry the weight of something profound: a love that doesn’t just endure but thrives. A love that says, “I choose you,” over and over, without hesitation.
If your partner shows these signs, treasure them. Because real love is the fire that keeps burning, even when life gets windy.
And that kind of love? It’s rare, beautiful, and worth holding onto with all your heart.
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