Balance Quote by Merle Shain
“Marriage is supposed to do everything, like Duz, which is more than half its problem. It is said to save us, define us, give us purpose, keep us from loneliness, and incidentally balance our diet and wash our socks, and when it doesn't, we get divorced.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Marriage and the Family, 1970s (hypothetical)
Marriage is portrayed as a multifaceted institution meant to fulfill emotional, social, and practical needs, yet its failure leads to divorce.
In simple terms: Marriage aims to meet many needs; failure leads to divorce.
Key Takeaway
Recognize marriage’s limits and seek fulfillment elsewhere.
Themes
marriage
expectations
failure
divorce
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
advice
observational
When to use this quote
- relationship counseling
- solo living
- financial planning
- healthcare
Key Concepts
social contract
personal fulfillment
Questions to Reflect On
- What expectations do you hold for marriage?
- How can couples address unmet needs?
A Different Perspective
Not all marriages fit this description; cultural differences matter.
![“One of the things I will talk about, that no president has talked about before, is I think the dangers of contraception in this country. It's not okay. It's a license to do things in a sexual realm that is counter to how things are supposed to be. [Sex] is supposed to be within marriage. It's…” quote by Rick Santorum](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/aef/rick-santorum-1840_conjugal_one-of-the-things-i-will-talk-about-that_704914.jpg)
