To commemorate my 25th wedding anniversary this week to my husband, Jesse, I asked readers on Facebook to share their own secrets to a long happy marriage.

In short, the crowdsourced recipe for marital endurance includes faith, forgiveness, romance, kindness, selflessness and a healthy dose of humor. A union built to last begins with a promise and persists through compromise and commitment. It is about keeping your word, choosing the right words and knowing when no words are necessary.

Teri L. emphasized: "Marriage is WORK. You have to put effort into it. You have to love and nurture the relationship. It has to be priority. You have to respect it."

Cathy G. advised: "Be careful with your words. Once they are out in the universe, there is no taking them back. And laugh — a lot! 41 years and counting."

Vincent O. opined: The "key to a long marriage is forgiveness and understanding. You must also end your arguments and misunderstandings the same day. Never let it linger."

Tony G. kept it short and simple: "53 years ago, I learned how to say, 'Yes, Love.'"

Marie G. also administered pithy wisdom: "30 years. It's all about RESPECT."