Charlie: Like many other people, I grew up believing that marriage required self-sacrifice.

Lots of it. I thought that successful couples put each other’s needs ahead of their own and denied themselves pleasures that weren’t compatible with their mate’s preferences. It’s a small wonder that I wasn’t exactly jumping out of my skin with enthusiasm to settle down. In the shadow of my independent, commitment-aversive self, was the side of me that craved connection, affection, and let’s be honest, regular sex. So, at the age of 25, Linda and I got married. Given my beliefs, it’s not surprising that my feelings were somewhat mixed when we tied the knot. A candid photo taken of me on our wedding day reveals my strong ambivalence.