Love and Marriage

Someone
Copyright 2012 Addie Hirschten
Pencil on Paper

Despite the fact that I have been married, I recently had a fantasy about writing a book entitled, "The Anti-Marriage Manifesto."

But beyond my urge to complain-meister about marriage, how can I redefine what I want in relationships? What promises do I want to make to my lovers... or expect in return?

How about this...

I promise to be honest.

I promise to be empathetic, to listen.

I promise to drop everything and be there for you if your car breaks down.

How is this different from the way I would treat any other friend? Well, it isn't much different honestly, but there is a closeness that comes with intimacy. There is a bond. That bond doesn't have to be rigid and based on a fear of loneliness or cultural expectations. It embraces. It is forgiving. It is accepting... and gravy is it fun.

When you love someone, all your saved-up wishes start coming out.

-Elizabeth Bowen