Marriage must incessantly contend with a monster that devours everything: familiarity

Marriage must incessantly contend with a monster that devours everything: familiarity

Marriage is often portrayed as a beautiful union between two people who love each other deeply and are committed to spending their lives together. However, the reality of marriage is much more complex than this idealized image. One of the biggest challenges that couples face in marriage is the monster of familiarity.

Familiarity in a marriage can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can be comforting to be with someone who knows you inside and out, who understands your quirks and idiosyncrasies, and who can finish your sentences. This level of intimacy and closeness is what many people strive for in a marriage. However, familiarity can also breed contempt, as the saying goes. When you spend so much time with someone, you start to take them for granted. You stop making an effort to impress them or show them how much you care. The spark that was once there can start to fade, and you may find yourself feeling bored or unfulfilled in the relationship.

The monster of familiarity can also lead to complacency in a marriage. When you become too comfortable with your partner, you may stop putting in the effort to keep the relationship alive and thriving. You may stop going on dates, having deep conversations, or trying new things together. This can lead to a sense of stagnation in the relationship, where both partners feel like they are just going through the motions rather than truly connecting with each other.