parsing monogamy
For many of us, marriage is special. The idea of a lifelong bond
between two people is accorded legal, spiritual and cultural
significance throughout much of the world. Whether we are religious or
secular, a permanent monogamous relationship can feel sacred.
So
when we hear about animals that form lifelong bonds, our "aww" factor
goes into overdrive: "How adorable! Gosh, we could all learn a thing or
two from those shingleback lizards".
But for all the romantic novels, love songs and soppy greetings cards, monogamy remains more of an ideal than a reality.
Setting aside sex and jealousy and youthful energy. The family structure has replaced the tribal structure and support for child rearing really hasn't evolved beyond that structure. Even the single parent difficulty remains largely unaddressed.
ReplyDeleteBut then, if you can find someone you're willing to endure, who will endure you, you may feel a wee bit safer in the world. To have someone to take care of gives you purpose, and to have someone to take care of you is just nice.