The Joys of Marriage

The deep connection found in marriage can only be forged through dedication, loyalty, compassion, and time. (Unsplash)

Back in the day, it was considered a given that when you grew up, you got married and started a family. That was thought to be the best thing to do—even the right thing to do.

Today, in certain segments of society, young people are being discouraged from getting married. Whether it’s through talk of “oppression,” fear about divorce rates, pessimism about the future, or simply a lack of respect for marriage, such messages do a disservice to individuals and society as a whole.

As my own wedding anniversary approaches, I see, personally, what an enormous blessing my marriage has been to my husband, to me, and to our family. I couldn’t be more grateful for my marriage.

While we thankfully each have the freedom to choose the path in life we take, I’d like to offer some encouragement to those considering marriage. Marriage is a beautiful, challenging, life-giving venture, complete with ups and downs, challenges and failures. It is a worthwhile pursuit that has the potential to enhance life for everyone and lead to some of the richest experiences life has to offer.

Here are some of the best things about marriage.

Settling Down

Some may consider the idea of “settling down” antiquated, but I believe it’s something needed by people today more than ever. The peace and security that comes from settling down, committing your life to someone else, and sharing your future is wonderful. Suddenly you both set aside the pursuits of the single life and enjoy an expanded capacity to reach a higher potential—individually and as a new family.

What’s more, establishing a home together with your spouse is such a delight. Enjoying the simplest of pleasures like coming home to each other each night, sharing your home with family and friends, and enjoying a companionship like no other makes each day better.

Improving Oneself

I once heard marriage described as two people handing over their whole lives to each other—each entrusting literally their lives to the other. So, the responsibility that is given to each spouse is enormous and something to be taken seriously.

Remembering this puts day-to-day life in perspective and gives marriage the appropriate gravity it deserves. In the face of little trifles or major challenges, remembering what your spouse has entrusted you with can inform how you handle what’s before you.

No marriage is without difficulty. Sharing your life with someone else requires a higher level of character. Through every petty argument or monumental struggle, if you look for the lessons you can take away, you’ll continually grow.

What’s more, you and your spouse will know each other better than anyone else can. Appreciating and encouraging each others’ strengths also fosters personal improvement.

You can learn more about yourself married than you ever could on your own. I can say, personally, my husband has helped me to become a better person.

Dividing and Conquering

Life is demanding. It sure is nice to take it all on as a team.

My husband and I have, over the years, established individual responsibilities that we both happily embrace and that make life much easier. I appreciate him for all that he does and he appreciates me. It’s a beautiful thing.

Deep Connection

The connection with your spouse will grow to be like no other.

My husband and I have known each other for more than half of our lives. We know each others’ strengths and weaknesses, struggles and successes, dreams and fears, joys and sorrows. We are partners, best friends, and family all wrapped into one.

Such a deep connection can only be forged through dedication, loyalty, compassion, and time. As we move through life together, it’s such a blessing.

In It Together

Facing life’s ups and downs with someone by your side makes the joys more joyful and the sorrows easier to handle. Whether it’s a flat tire, a career accomplishment, the loss of a loved one, or the birth of a new baby, you’re in it together.

The Birth of a Family

Speaking of new babies, my favorite thing about getting married is that it actually marks the birth of a new family. Our now four-person crew is my life’s focus and more wonderful than I could have ever dreamed. Of course, our family extends to both of our extended families. Family is the center of life, and marriage is what makes it flourish.