MARRIAGE

I have decided to write on something totally different from that which I am used to. A topic I chose because I have friends who have recently gotten into it, are about getting into it and also because I know that eventually, I will get into it. The topic is marriage. The institution of marriage is one I know nothing about except what is on the surface. My opinions are a product of other people’s experiences and hearsay. My views are based on assessments from the outside. A layman’s views if you like.Some people see marriage as a moral requirement. Others see it as an social necessity. More often than not, people view marriage as a religious obligation.Whatever the reason for people deciding to get married, the decision in it self has far reaching consequences. This is because marriage transcends the two people who are getting into it. It brings about the merging of cultures, habits and most importantly, families.
Marriage for me is one of those institutions whose dignity and sanctity cannot be over emphasised. A journey whose destination is unknown.It's a journey which those embarking on have no clear or predetermined route. A union that goes beyond love or whatever reasons one has for getting into it. A decision that involves the rest of peoples’ lives and most importantly, a process that involves bringing into the world, new life. In Nigerian lingo, it is not a joking matter.Based on what I conceive marriage to be, I fear that my generation is headed for trouble based on the alarming rate at which some young couples choose to end their marriages at the expense of not just their happiness, but the happiness of family, friends, well wishers and worst of all, young children. I also fear, that my generation is yet to fully comprehend the requirements of marriage and doctrines that guard it with my humble self included.I do not know what causes marriages to fail. I do not know what makes marriages work. I do not know what a successful marriage is ought to be or how success in marriage is measured. What I do know however is what a failed marriage is and I do not wish it on my worst enemy.I urge anyone getting married to understand that the marriage path may not always be smooth. To recognise that differences may arise and tempers may flare. One should however, not give in to that notion that ending the union might be the best way out. If however, one has to take that bitter decision, then one should take it knowing they tried all that was humanly possible to not become another divorce statistic.I pen this piece not because I am a pessimist or afraid of marriage, I write this because failed marriages leave wounds and scars that may never be healed even with time. Failed marriages are anti-climaxes that shed a bad light on an otherwise respectable institution. Failed marriages lead to social decline and moral decadence. Something no society should allow and fight to stop.
I take this opportunity to say congratulations to anyone that has recently got married and also to wish anyone getting married a blissful union and happy days ahead. To my yet-to-be married husband whoever and wherever he may be, I shall try all in my power not to let our marriage be a failed one.

Stay Inspired
Uhanan Mimi