WOMEN would have you believe that they have the authority on suffering in marriage, with the mass media largely supporting the bruised bride theory. But men say they do have regrets too and, for them, marriage is also seeming like an enter-and-exit quickly kind of experience.

Last week, women summed up their experiences in the institution, and this week men say, too, that sometimes it’s not all it’s cooked up to be, being the Mr.

What advice would they give to a young man on the cusp of making the big decision to do the holy matrimony dance?

Romario, married three years:

Meet her family, see how they interact, see how her dad treats her mom. Because she will either expect the same treatment if he’s a good man, or have major issues if he’s not. And you will bear the emotional brunt of it either way.

Shomari, married five years:

She probably won’t be with you through thick and thin like she promised, even if she made the vows. Women don’t like struggle. So before you get married, ask yourself if she would be with you for richer and poorer, and in sickness and health, and if there is any doubt in your mind, don’t do it!

Kevin, married 15 years:

Best decision of my life, but I would say, enjoy your youth first, then get married to a woman who centres you. Looks fade, but a good heart is forever. But if you’re young and think you’ve found a good woman, don’t mess it up and say you have to play the field first, or see what else is out there. It’s quality that’s important.

Ricardo, married, 12 years:

Don’t fall into the mistake of just being a provider and things like that. Because if you’re not there for her emotionally, you’ll come home one day and find out that she’s been messing with her gym trainer. Money is important, but you have to find time for your wife too, because she doesn’t stop being a desirable woman just because she’s married.

Akeem, married seven years:

You’ll get bored, but I guess boredom never yet killed anybody. Stay the course!