I sometimes wonder what our kids’ thoughts, opinions and views are of the institution of marriage.
When I was younger, I used to think that it was not necessary to have a piece of paper and a huge expensive wedding to proof that I am committed to someone. But I changed my mind over time … I now think that by going through the rituals of saying “I do”, by having your friends and families to bear witness, and yes, by having that piece of paper called the marriage license … they do help to make the bond more sacred.
In today’s world where divorces can occur 3 or 4 or 5 times in some people’s lives, where live-in girlfriends and boyfriends can change overnight, going through those, what some may consider old-fashioned traditions, do make us more aware of whom we are committing ourselves to; they do help to make us think twice before we jump into or get out of a relationship; and at the extreme ends, if one were wealthy or not, one can’t help but wonder in some situations if it was love or money that actually held the relationship together (e.g. think Hugh Hefner or Anna Nicole Smith).
Of course, getting married is one heck of an excuse to have a party. Well, we didn’t have a party per se at our wedding. We had a one hour Catholic mass and an expensive banquet with mostly strangers, and some friends and families. So after 30 years, we finally had a party for our anniversary last year . This year, it was much more low key, but it was nonetheless a celebration of many many AWESOME years together.
I hope our kids will see and learn from our modelling, from other examples like their grandparents (62 years) and other family members that marriage is a life long monogamous commitment that requires lots of nurturing, patience, support, give and take and honest communication – it is not always easy and it takes work, but you will get back what you put in, sometimes more than expected.
Well said, Awesomemom. With our 56th anniversary coming up the end of August, I totally agree with you. Congratulations to the grandparents–62 years. Wow!!
Cheers from Kitchener
Congratulations on your upcoming anniversary … 56 years – AWESOME!!!!! I can’t help but feel blown away by that. It is a rarity these days. I hope you are having a celebration on your special day.