Fidelity In Marriage

The prevalent hedonistic culture in the world today, convinces people that the pursuit of personal pleasure outstrips all other considerations. Fidelity in marriage has become a casualty. Marriage which was considered the building block of society and bound two people together in a physical, mental and emotional oneness, is now merely a minority concept.

A good marriage doesn’t happen automatically. It involves commitment, acceptance, and mutual respect bonded together with love. Spouses set themselves apart from all others, and give themselves exclusively to each other. A good marriage is based on the “reciprocity principle.” Partners who have pledged to love each other ‘till death do us part,’ must work at it actively and continuously. There is no casual leave or vacation written into the contract.

What do we mean by Fidelity? It is the quality of reliability and trustworthiness to one’s partner.

“To be faithful is not a favour you bestow on your spouse. It is a privilege to bless yourself with,: says Michael Cohon.

The world is in the grip of a sexual revolution. Sex, sexual exploits, sexual prowess are recurring themes that bombard us through both the print and electronic media. Personal pleasure and self fulfillment are characteristics of the New Morality. Infidelity is glamorized.

“Do what you want to,” is the slogan of Individualism.

A recent study done in the US, shows that 30% of women and 40% of men have been unfaithful to their spouses at some point in their marriage.

The weakening of religious and social restraints, the easy availability of sex, permissive legislation have all contributed to the rise in infidelity.

Temptation is a gradual process, which first begins in the mind. Suggestive articles, movies, books or magazines initiate lustful thoughts. Thoughts turn to desire and desire to action. Even a one-night stand doesn’t happen suddenly. It is preceded by unworthy thoughts.

“An affair may be an indication of marriage malfunctioning,” says Linda Wolfe.