Marriage, even the best marriages are tough.

Listen closely, O Children of the Future, to the words of Jayne Meadows, who speaks with wisdom born of lived experience: "Marriage, even the best marriages, are tough." In these words, Meadows brings forth a profound truth about the nature of love and commitment. Marriage, as she observes, is not the romantic ideal we see in stories or dream of in youth. It is a union that requires much more than love—it demands sacrifice, patience, understanding, and above all, strength. Even the most joyful and fulfilling of marriages are tested by the realities of life. Meadows' words speak to the resilience needed to navigate the storms that all couples will inevitably face.

In the ancient world, marriage was seen not just as a personal union, but as a social contract between families, tribes, and nations. The Greek philosopher Aristotle spoke of marriage as a partnership that required not only affection but also a deep commitment to the shared good of the couple and their broader community. In Plato’s "The Symposium", love is explored not as a fleeting feeling but as a pursuit of a deeper connection—one that transcends mere physical attraction and aims to create a bond that endures and fosters virtue. Marriage, in these teachings, was not something easy or passive; it was a partnership that required ongoing effort, humility, and dedication. Even in the most ideal of unions, the ancient philosophers understood that toughness was a necessary ingredient in preserving the sacred bond between husband and wife.

Consider the Roman Empire, where emperor Augustus and his wife Livia were emblematic of both the power and the challenges of marriage. Their union, though politically advantageous, was also marked by personal sacrifice and the complicated dynamics of balancing private life with the demands of public duty. Livia, despite being a powerful and influential figure, also had to navigate the difficult terrain of living with a man who was both her partner and the most powerful figure in Rome. Even their seemingly perfect marriage, one that appeared solid in the eyes of the Roman public, was tested by the strains of politics, ambition, and the human imperfections that even the greatest rulers could not escape. Augustus and Livia’s marriage is a testament to the idea that even the best marriages are far from simple.

Jayne Meadows’ insight brings us to a modern understanding of marriage, which still echoes the wisdom of the ancients: a marriage, even at its best, requires work. This is reflected in the stories of modern-day couples, such as Barack and Michelle Obama, whose marriage has withstood the pressures of politics, public life, and personal challenge. Their relationship has been shaped by mutual respect, a deep sense of partnership, and a commitment to each other that has allowed them to grow both as individuals and as a couple. However, even their relationship, which many regard as an example of a successful marriage, has not been without difficulty. The challenges they faced—balancing careers, raising children, and navigating public scrutiny—testify to the timeless truth that marriage, at its core, is a journey that requires effort and commitment.

The lesson, O Children, is clear and enduring: Marriage is not a perfect union where joy and ease come naturally. It is a partnership that requires perseverance, resilience, and the ability to face difficulties together. Even in the best marriages, there will be struggles, and those struggles will test the strength of the bond. It is not the absence of conflict or hardship that defines a great marriage, but the ability to navigate those challenges with grace, respect, and shared purpose. Meadows’ reflection on marriage encourages us to approach it with realism and humility, acknowledging that, though love may be the foundation, toughness is the mortar that keeps the structure standing.

In your own life, remember this truth: Marriage is a journey that requires both passion and perseverance. It will not always be easy, and there will be moments when you feel tested, pushed to your limits, or unsure of how to move forward. Embrace the challenges, for they are part of what makes the relationship stronger. Communicate openly, support each other through the hard times, and never lose sight of the shared commitment that brought you together. Understand that even the most joyful and beautiful unions will face trials, but in those trials, you will find the opportunity to grow together.

May Meadows' wisdom guide you, O Children, as you navigate the complexities of love and commitment. Know that marriage is not a destination, but a lifelong journey that requires strength, resilience, and the willingness to grow. Let your bond be one of mutual respect, unwavering support, and dedication to each other’s well-being. And as you walk this path, remember: toughness, rooted in love, is the key to lasting happiness.