The idea for this post came to my friend and I during one lunchtime at school. One bizarre conversation led to the next until eventually we were debating (I’ll use the diplomatic term) about whether people in this day and age stay together as a couple for life. Basically, does life long love exist? It’s my opinion that it does. However my friend and others were of the impression that people nowadays do not stay together for life. Yes, I’ll admit some valid points were put forward from the “no they don’t camp”, but all of these may be explained and nullified with some simple points.
I believe it is a cultural change that is making long term relationships almost a second priority in today’s society and I believe relationships are evolving, not becoming extinct.
For many generations women have been second class citizens all over the world, sadly in some countries they still are. Thankfully in Ireland however there is equality for both genders. Only in the past 30 years have Irish women been able to (almost been “allowed to” to some extent) make something of themselves. This is a major change in society. Women no longer are obligated by their life or society to settle down and have children. We can educate ourselves and do whatever we want, be it owner of a massive multi-million corporation or the future Albert Einstein, preferably with a little better looks of course.
It is my opinion that society still doesn't know how to deal with this change and meanwhile keep people together. It’s no one’s fault that there is an increase in separation between couples. Eventually society will find a balance between all these changes and hopefully be a better place for it.
This however has nothing what so ever to do with people being incapable of loving each other their entire life. I believe it’s possible (yes I know, a little bit of a romantic at heart, but sure who isn't at times?). Even just to think to yourself for one minute, look at all the people you know who still love each other very much. The argument against this long lasting relationship is that it’s old fashioned. Those kinds of things were done in the “olden days”. Come on, seriously? Are you saying that our generation are incapable of it?
Nonsense.
As a matter of fact, I think that any life long relationship that begins in this generation should be much better that one that began 100 years ago. At least now women are equal in the relationship and men also feel that they can be involved in family life without being seen to be feminine.
And yes,there is also the argument that life long love is rare. But that argument doesn't even help the opposition. Many things in life are rare. However if you’re admitting to them being rare you’re also admitting to them being real.
There is one last thing I’d like to point out. Many things are seen to popular at certain times, smoking was one of them during the 50’s. Didn't that turn out splendid?
Just because “everyone” appears to be dong the opposite of you doesn't mean what you’re dong is wrong. If you love someone then you love someone. If you spend you’re life together that’s you’re choice. It’s your choice though, not society’s, not any more.
SJ H