UncleDaveO, oh yes, we were both aware of the cultural differences, and our ceremony was of necessity a civil one in UK, and didn't require promises to 'obey'. My husband has come to accept that women here are equal under the law. But I know it was hard for him at first. He had to get used to the fact I have my opinions and will express them, and that I wouldn't ask his permission to leave the house (as if!!) if I wanted to go out. Also, as I know much more about this country than he does, he has to follow my lead a lot of the time which isn't easy for him. Both my sister and I were brought up to see ourselves as equal to men and were given a good education and encouraged to pursue a career by our forward-looking parents. We were very lucky. I'm a practising Christian (C of E) but would never condone women 'obeying' men. Ridiculous and insulting!!