Fighting for marriage

Marriage is at a turning point in history.

This week, a group of leaders from various religions – including the LDS Church – signed a letter affirming a commitment to preserve marriage as the union between one man and one woman.

At the same time, Time Magazine hit stands in November with a cover saying, “Who Needs Marriage?” The report discussed whether marriage is becoming obsolete as unwed cohabitation continues to rise.

While much of the attention on marriage lately is due to the issue of homosexual marriage, the value of marriage in general is in question. As Time asks, “Who needs marriage?”

Well, I do. I need the security of a marriage for me and for my children. Saying “I do” in no way ensures a happy, lifelong relationship, but I think it does give you a solid foundation on which to build a life.

Sadly, I know there are lots of unwed couples out there that are happier and more committed than many married folks.

So the thought that came to me this week is that if I need marriage and believe in marriage, then I need to fight for it. I’m not talking about lobbying for or against Proposition 8 or any other hot topic issues on marriage, I want to fight for marriage in my own home.

I want my marriage to mean something. We are not co-habitators. We are not co-sleepers or even co-parents. We are husband and wife. That means something to me.

I want to support the institution of marriage by making mine as good as it can be. I want to teach my children that marriage vows are serious, divorce is not an easy answer, and selfishness has no place in a marriage.

Maybe the case for marriage would be more powerful if everyone spent a little less time arguing about it and more time making marriage as strong and sacred as they say it is.

What do you think about the role of marriage? Is it still an institution worth fighting for? What does the label of “husband and wife” add that any other arrangement can’t?