Nothing that’s worthwhile is ever easy. Remember that. - Nicholas Sparks

Everyone has a past, but that's just it — it's in the past. You can learn from it, but you can't change it.

I mean, if the relationship can't survive the long term, why on earth would it be worth my time and energy for the short term?

...The one thing you've got to remember is to see the big picture. When things get tough, remind yourself why you fell in love with her in the first place. She's a special woman, and you were lucky to find her, just as she was lucky to find you. She's got a heart of gold, and you can't fake something like that.