In an ideal world, marriage vows would be entirely…
““In an ideal world, marriage vows would be entirely rewritten. At the altar, a couple would speak thus: “We accept not to panic when, some years from now, what we are doing today will seem like the worst decision of our lives. Yet we promise not to look around, either, for we accept that there cannot be better options out there. Everyone is always impossible. We are a demented species.” After the solemn repetition of the last sentence by the congregation, the couple would continue: “We will endeavor to be faithful. At the same time, we are certain that never being allowed to sleep with anyone else is one of the tragedies of existence. We apologize that our jealousies have made this peculiar but sound and non-negotiable restriction very necessary. We promise to make each other the sole repository of our regrets rather than distribute them through a life of sexual Don Juanism. We have surveyed the different options for unhappiness, and it is to each other we have chosen to bind ourselves.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Marriage vows could acknowledge uncertainty, imperfection, and the human tendency toward jealousy and limitation.
In simple terms: Vows should accept imperfection and jealousy.
Key Takeaway
Embrace realistic expectations.
Themes
marriage
imperfection
jealousy
Mood
candid
introspective
Type
philosophical
romantic
When to use this quote
- wedding ceremonies
- relationship counseling
- personal vows
Key Concepts
existentialism
relationship ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How would you rewrite your own vows?
- Can honesty about flaws strengthen a partnership?
A Different Perspective
Idealism may clash with cultural expectations.