Compromise in Marriage

Two people from two different backgrounds and worlds coming together can be very challenging. Aside form their previous beliefs and lifestyles, there is need to blend with one another in order to cohabit and live peacefully. Compromise in marriage may involve habits, character, beliefs and values, acquaintances, past relationships and finances.

Habits

Habits may be good or bad; dealing with habits in a relationship can lead to quarrels and often disagreements particularly when one partner is unwilling to relinquish the habit affecting the other.

Character

Some situations exist where one partner behaved differently during dating and courtship and has developed a new form during marriage. But this is not always true as people fail to see the real person while dating and tend to see the truth in marriage. In this situation, communication must be made to make progress.

Beliefs and Values

Certain beliefs are unacceptable by certain persons which must lead to coming together to weigh the pros and cons leading to a consensual agreement.

Acquaintances

Acquaintances are some of the reasons couples have rifts. Some acquaintances may not be accepted by one of the partners and the other may see the acquaintance as a necessary asset in life. The couple should learn to agree on keeping such acquaintance close or at a distance.

Past Relationships

This may be a problem which must be shared. In other words, the truth about the past must be brought to light and the couple should learn to trust one another.

Finances

This includes savings, taxes, debts, expenses which must be revealed to each other to avoid bankruptcy and also the couple must accommodate financial advice and help from one another.

“Compromise, if not the spice of life, is its solidity. It is what makes nations great and marriages happy.”-Chinua Achebe