‘Couples should rather work out their problems than split up’

COUNSELLOR and pastor Norman Ramsoomar believes communication is key in any marriage and often encourages couples to work out their problems first rather than splitting up.

“I don’t like hearing about divorce nor do I encourage couples to take that path. I instead advise them to support one another and work on strengthening their relationship,” said Norman, 77, a minister at the Christian Revival Centre.

Norman and his wife, Sylvia, 68, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Saturday.

“I value my wife and believe the holy spirit cemented us together. She is a wonderful woman, mother and grandmother to 10 grandchildren. God gave me the best woman of all,” he beamed. Norman was 22 and Sylvia 15 when they were introduced by their fathers during Sunday afternoon tea at the teenager’s home in Seaview, Rossburgh.

The youngsters did not know their dads were secretly playing Cupid.

“After a few visits, I had fallen for her,” said Norman. “I worked at the Oyster Box in uMhlanga as a head waiter and would get impatient to see her. I knew she was at home, so I used to call her as often as I could.”

Three years later, both families met to discuss the young couple’s future. It was agreed that the next logical step would be marriage. They tied the knot on November 4, 1967, at the Cornubia Hall in front of 250 guests. Sylvia wore a white sari and veil, while Norman opted for a black suit. The newly-weds moved to New Farm, in Phoenix, and later had two daughters, Evelyn and Hazel. Norman left his job at the Oyster Box to work alongside his father-in-law at a furniture store but his new career was shortlived.

Thereafter he had his family relocated to oThongathi after he secured a municipal job as a head supervisor in the maintenance department. Norman remained employed there for 39 years until he retired in 2009. The couple were blessed with two other children, Mervin and Shantle.

Sylvia, like Norman, said they often advised their children to listen and be patient with their spouses.

Norman and Sylvia Ramsoomar with their daughter Shantle Naidoo, son-in-law Neville Naidoo, and granddaughters Ariella Naidoo, Taliyah Naidoo and Emma Naidoo. BELOW: The Ramsoomars on their wedding day on November 4, 1967.