The Reason To Get Married
Key Takeaways
- 💍 Marriage historically provided a framework for regular sex, but in contemporary society, sex is accessible outside marriage.
- 🚸 The primary reason for marriage today is to raise children, as companionship and cohabitation can be achieved without marriage.
- 🏔️ Having a goal in life, such as raising children, provides meaning and direction, especially in a society where survival is no longer a primary challenge.
- 👪 Marriage becomes a profound commitment when it involves raising children, offering a sense of purpose beyond mere companionship.
- 😊 Parenthood, despite its challenges, brings profound satisfaction and gives life meaning, contrasting with a hedonistic lifestyle devoid of purpose.
- 🤵♂️ Finding a partner who shares the understanding that marriage is about building a family and raising children is essential for a fulfilling marital union.
Why Do People Get Married?
The Simple Question
Why do people get married? It’s a question that may seem simple, but it carries a lot of complexity. Take a moment to pause and reflect on this question yourself. Why do people choose to enter into the institution of marriage?
The Evolution of Marriage
Originally, marriage was primarily about sex. In the past, social norms dictated that only properly married individuals could engage in sexual activity with one another. Outside of marriage, engaging in sexual encounters was not widely accepted. However, societal norms have shifted, and today, individuals can engage in consensual sex with whomever they choose. So, if marriage is no longer necessary for sexual companionship, why do people still choose to get married?
The Need for Companionship
Many people cite companionship as a reason for getting married. However, it is important to note that companionship can be found in various relationship dynamics. Living together and forming strong emotional connections can provide the same level of companionship without the need for marriage. So, why do people still choose to tie the knot?
The Purpose of Marriage Today
I propose that the primary reason for getting married in contemporary society is to raise children. If you are not planning on having children with your partner, then marriage may not be necessary. Having children gives your life a sense of purpose, direction, and meaning. It provides a goal to strive towards, which is essential for many individuals.
The Importance of Having Goals
As humans, we need goals in life. Goals provide us with a sense of meaning and purpose. In the past, survival was the ultimate goal. However, in today’s society, survival is relatively easy to achieve. Therefore, we must create new goals for ourselves to give our lives direction and fulfillment.
Having children and dedicating ourselves to their well-being is a powerful goal. It gives our lives a profound sense of meaning and purpose. While other pursuits may be considered selfish, caring for our children is a selfless act that brings immense satisfaction and fulfillment.
The Commitment of Marriage
Getting married with the intention of raising children goes beyond legal and economic benefits. It signifies a lifelong commitment to your partner and your shared responsibility of nurturing and educating your children. Marriage becomes more than just a casual partnership that can easily be dissolved. It becomes an enduring obligation to your spouse and your children.
The Rewards of Parenthood
Raising children involves sacrifices and hard work. It is not always easy, and there are moments when you may feel frustrated or overwhelmed. However, when you step back and look at the bigger picture, you realize the profound joy and satisfaction that comes from watching your children grow and develop.
While parents may not experience constant happiness on a day-to-day basis, the overall journey of parenthood brings immense happiness and fulfillment. The bond formed with your children and the impact you have on their lives is priceless.
The Empty Pursuit of Hedonism
Contrast this with marriages that do not involve children. Couples who focus solely on pleasure-seeking and hedonistic experiences may have fun in the moment, but their lives lack deeper meaning and purpose. Toys, extravagant vacations, and self-indulgence may provide temporary pleasure, but they do not offer long-lasting fulfillment.
Living a hedonistic lifestyle can be appealing, especially in youth. However, as we age, the appeal diminishes. What once brought excitement and satisfaction loses its allure. Chasing after temporary pleasures becomes tiresome, and the pursuit of a deeper purpose takes precedence.
Building a Life for Your Children
Ultimately, the only true reason to get married is to build a life centered around raising children. Children give your life a sense of purpose and provide you with a reason to strive for success, both financially and emotionally. The sacrifices you make for your children become worthwhile and fulfilling.
When you find a partner who shares your understanding of the importance of building a family, it is a precious bond. Holding onto and nurturing that relationship becomes a priority. Committing to marriage and starting a family together is a significant step towards creating a meaningful and purposeful life.
So, the next time you ask yourself, “Why do people get married?” remember that the answer lies in the desire to create a better future for the next generation. Marriage becomes a foundation for achieving personal fulfillment and leaving a legacy of love and growth.