W. H. Auden . . . wrote: “Like everything which is not the involuntary result of fleeting emotion but the creation of time and will, any marriage, happy or unhappy, is infinitely more interesting than any romance, however passionate.” (Hardcover, pp. 89–90; paperback, p. 94)
MORE INTERESTING. The quote above, from the prominent twentieth-century poet and author W. H. Auden, is meant to be startling. But we believe that the statement holds up to scrutiny. Some argue that living together as long as there is sexual attraction is a more voluntary kind of love than legal marriage. But Auden depicts romantic relationships outside of marriage as less voluntary. They almost “happen to us” as we sense the sexual chemistry and are drawn in. They are also, therefore, not lasting. Marriage, however, is an act of the will—a vow and commitment—that is sustained over time. They involve every part of your life—not just the weekends or getaways. They are then infinitely more “interesting” because marriage will tell you far more about yourself, human nature, and life itself.
Reflection: Do you agree with the statement? Think of other ways that marriages, even difficult ones, are “infinitely more interesting.”
Thought for prayer: Meditate on Jesus’s endurance to the end in order to love and save us (Hebrews 12:1–3). Ask God for spiritual endurance over the long run, not just to be faithful to your spouse but faithful to him as well.