We live in a time when marriage means different things to different people. Whether or not we view marriage traditionally or non-traditionally, most respect the institution and the commitment it takes to honor such a commitment. In the article, “For Better, For Worse: Marriage Means Something Different Now,” author Stephanie Coontz writes about how the institution of marriage has changed over time and encourages us to consider what constitutes a successful marriage. The recipe for a successful marriage has been modeled for me by my parents and grandparents as a lifelong relationship rooted in faith, love, and an unwavering commitment to the journey. For me, marriage has a strong foundation in a faith in God and in His expectations for how a husband and wife honor each other and God through marriage. This faith also allows for a confidence in God’s ability and desire to provide for our needs, to find meaning in life’s difficult times, and that our conflicts will ultimately make us stronger and more wise. Faith provides a guiding light and deeper purpose for married couples to rely on. Such focus allows couples to stay the course and support each other in love.
Love is a word that is thrown around quite often in our culture, but I believe that the love required for a healthy marriage is so much more than the word. While explaining the changes that have occurred as a result of marriage no longer being required, Coontz states, “As soon as love became the driving force behind marriage, people began to demand the right to …show more content…
Feelings change, we change. My parents and grandparents have shown me what it means to commit to marriage vows and what it takes to have a successful marriage. If marriages are to withstand the storms that life brings our way, then they must have deep roots: a strong faith, deep love, and a firm commitment to the