“After 21 years of marriage, my wife wanted me to take another woman out to dinner and a movie. She said, “I love you, but I know this other woman loves you and would love to spend some time with you.”

You’ve seen that phrase on Facebook and elsewhere, but it’s actually from a 1995 Reader’s Digest Story. Then the surprise is that the “other woman” that the husband’s wife is telling him he should take out for a date night is actually his own mother.

The bittersweet anecdote has been apropriated by so many on the Internet, but if you want to read from the original source like I did, here it is:

That “other woman” in my life. (mothers)

Article Abstract:

A man, upon the advice of his wife, started dating another woman, his 72- year-old mother. His conversations with her mother provided him a link to his history and a vision towards his future. He believes that these dates strengthened and livened up his relationship with his wife.Author:\Farrell, David C. Publisher: Reader’s Digest Association, Inc. Publication Name: Reader’s Digest Subject: General interest ISSN:0034-0375 Year: 1995 Appreciation

Recommended Further Reads

You Don’t Have As Long With Your Parents As You Think – Tim Denning

A Date with Mom Analysis – Snopes.com

32 of the Most Memorable Reader’s Digest Stories Ever – Caroline Fanning