Childhood Misconceptions About Marriage: Growing Up with Misunderstandings
As a child, our perceptions of marriage are often shaped by the stories we hear and experiences we observe. These early glimpses can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or misconceptions about what marriage truly entails. This journey from childhood to more mature insights can be both endearing and eye-opening.
Myth 1: God Inserts Babies in PREGNANCY
When I was a child, I had a very different understanding of how pregnancies occur. I stayed in the same room with my uncle, who was not yet married. One day, he got married, and they began sleeping in separate rooms. I overheard that my aunt was going to have a baby within three months. This was a new concept for a child, and I found it difficult to comprehend. I asked my aunt how the baby got in her tummy. She avoided the question at first but eventually told me that God inserted the baby at night when she was sleeping. This was a concept that puzzled me, and I asked further questions about what my aunt was doing while God was inserting the baby. Despite my young age, it was clear that God's role in pregnancy was a key misunderstanding in my early life.
Myth 2: Weddings Are Always About Love and Happiness
During a relative's wedding, I witnessed the excitement and joy. Everyone was dressed in new clothes and jewelry, and there was a lot of dancing that night. I was particularly drawn to the couple on the stage. The girl cried after the wedding ceremonies, and I asked my mother about it. She explained that the bride would now live with her husband's family, which is why she was upset. The groom tried to comfort her, and she eventually smiled at him.
Years later, when I heard that the bride and groom were both in love and had kids, I believed that marriage was about two people in love who would have children and live happily ever after. I even thought that the groom would naturally be a great person and take care of me. It was a naive and optimistic view of marriage. However, I quickly realized that this was far from the truth.
Marriage Requires Continuous Effort and Independence
Marriage is not a magical solution that will ensure endless happiness. In reality, it involves constant effort, compromise, and the ability to handle challenges. Sometimes, the person you marry might not be the ideal partner, and it's crucial to have the courage and strength to overcome difficulties.
When two people choose to get married, they enter a partnership that requires mutual respect, understanding, and a willingness to change and grow. Marriage is not the end of the story; it's a continuation of personal growth and development. It's important to approach marriage with realistic expectations and to work together to ensure a fulfilling and satisfying relationship.
Conclusion
As a child, our perceptions of marriage can be vastly different from reality. It's natural to have a romanticized view based on stories and experiences. However, as we grow older, we gain a more nuanced understanding of what marriage entails. Remember, every married couple is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Embrace the challenges and joys of marriage, always keeping in mind the importance of independence, mutual growth, and continuous effort.