Marriage ... game of Love and Compromise

Recently, a celebrity couple made headlines for a sad reason—they announced their amicable separation after over 25 years of marriage. This prompted me to reflect on how yet another institution of marriage had succumbed to the challenges of time and emotion.

While growing up, like many girls, I envisioned marriage as a gateway to freedom. No strict rules, no obligations to study—just a partner who would love me for who I am, listen patiently, and make me feel cherished. To a large extent, this has been true in my own life. My husband loves me for who I am and continues to amaze me with his kind and loving nature.

A Chinese proverb says, "Marriage is like a pair of scissors: two imperfect pieces joined together to create something beautiful." Marriage is a beautiful mess, a delicate dance between two imperfect people navigating life together. It’s a roller coaster ride, where the highs lift you to exhilarating heights, and the lows bring you back to earth, grounding you in reality.

During the highs, even something as mundane as your partner’s snoring can seem endearing. Love forms the cornerstone of a marriage, binding two people in a profound emotional connection. This love isn’t static; it evolves over time, maturing from passionate infatuation into a deep, enduring bond. A healthy marriage allows both partners to grow individually while nurturing their relationship.

However, in the lows, even a simple glance from your partner is enough to raise the eyebrows. As children, we were taught the phrase, "Blood is thicker than water." However, the original saying, "The blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb," reveals a deeper meaning. In a world that often prioritizes family ties, this phrase challenges us to reevaluate the true meaning of enduring connections. This shift in perspective highlights the transformative power of love, making marriage extraordinary.

At its heart, marriage is a partnership that merges two distinct lives into one. Each partner brings their own experiences, values, and quirks, creating a unique blend that forms the foundation of their relationship. This bond, built on love, faith, respect, and laughter, unites two individuals willing to merge their cultures and traditions. Marriage is a shared endeavour, requiring a balance of common sense, patience, and daily doses of love and humour.

While marriage may appear a bed of roses, it’s not without its thorns. There will be moments when you feel like giving up, when the world you built together feels as though it’s crumbling. This is where the "blood of the covenant" comes into play—the steadfast commitment to love, support, and forgive each other.

So, why do some marriages come in stress and some fail? Despite its beauty, marriage faces many challenges. Preconceived notions and relationship biases accumulated over years can strain even the strongest bonds. Unrealistic expectations, romanticized ideals, and a lack of acceptance often create barriers. Yet, most marriages survive through effective communication, mutual respect, unconditional love and support. Compromise plays a crucial role—finding a middle ground where both partners feel heard and valued. It’s not about one partner always giving in, but about mutual adjustments for the greater good of the relationship.

In conclusion, marriage is a complex dance that demands resilience, patience, and a sense of humour. It’s about discovering joy in the mundane, finding strength during challenges, and embracing love despite imperfections. The journey isn’t always smooth, but with dedication and understanding, it can be profoundly fulfilling.

In short, marriage is a journey where two imperfect people refuse to give up on one another…