For ages, marriage has been looked upon as the final union between two lovers that solidifies the proclamation of undying love and devotion. However, oftentimes, the purpose of marriage has shifted from love to practicality and even legalized agreement. This shift in mentality has caused some to worry whether marriage all together is dying out or just taking on a different meaning. With the changing views of partnerships, could marriage as an institution becoming obsolete?
The defining factor between a marriage and a partnership is usually based on how long the two people have been together and if they have had any legal papers drawn up making it official. In the case of marriage, it is often a mix of both. Typically, there is paperwork or a ceremony in which marriage is declared if one wants to make the relationship official. But the type of marriage being proposed has shifted over the years. It is no longer only about tying two people together in love, but also in a more practical sense.
Now, marriages open the door to financial stability, legal protection, shared responsibility, and other communal rights. For many, marriage brings financial security and legal protection rather than a romantic bond. Furthermore, living in a single household opens up new opportunities for getting cheaper insurance, reduced taxes, and more. There is also the decision of not marrying at all, of eschewing the traditional definitions of romance and instead creating a space for the partners in question to create their own traditions.
Despite the above modifications, marriage is still a very important part of our human experience and culture. Even though marriage has changed drastically, it could still be as meaningful as it used to be. Despite its legalistic shift, it still works for many individuals and couples as a way of dedicating one’s self to achieving a deep and lasting bond. Through the signing of paperwork or a religious ceremony, marriage can still be an expression of love and devotion, if the individual so chooses.
Though people may have different ideas of what marriage should mean, that creates a unique opportunity to shape the definition of marriage to fit our contemporary world. Perhaps, instead of asking “Is marriage dying?”, we should change the conversation to “How is marriage changing?” The marriage of the future can incorporate aspects of the past while still being thoughtful of the practical needs of today. We don’t need to completely let go of traditions in marriage or partnerships, but allow for each couple to determine which ones work for them and to create new ones suited for their own lives.
It is up to each person to decide what marriage means to them, and how it will look to them in the present. Every couple creates a unique way to express love through partnership, and with this comes the ability for each partner to decide what marriage means to them. Unlike what we once thought, marriage doesn’t have be a one-size fits all experience. Instead, it can remain an essential part of life – just in a new form.
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