Marriage: More Than Happily Ever After

Growing up in the 90s, I was surrounded by movies that promised ultimate happiness through marriage. 

Disney endings always left the prince and princess in a bubble of eternal joy. 

However, the reality is that marriage is never a “happily ever after.”

Yes, getting married is one of the happiest moments in life. But it's also the start of a new set of challenges, ones you've never faced before. 

This raises a question: What was God’s true intention for marriage? 

If you think it’s just about happiness, there’s more to the story. Here’s a Sufi Comic on the purpose of Marriage:

Art by Charbak Dipta

God designed marriage as a path not only to joy but also for your spiritual growth.

There’s a verse of the Quran that says regarding marriage:

"...And live with them in kindness. For if you dislike them - perhaps you dislike a thing and Allah makes therein much good." (Quran 4:19)

The verse says that the trials of married life are opportunities to grow closer to God. 

Here’s how:

Patience

Living with another person requires a deep reservoir of patience and understanding. These virtues are essential for spiritual maturity.

Think about the last time you had to bite your tongue or show kindness despite feeling frustrated.

These moments are spiritual workouts, strengthening your soul.

Conflict Resolution

Conflicts are inevitable.

Learning to resolve them constructively is critical. It not only strengthens your relationship but also fosters emotional resilience.

In the heat of an argument, it's easy to let pride and selfishness take over. Picture a heated argument that ended in understanding and compromise.

That’s growth, both personal and spiritual, teaching you to navigate life’s storms with grace.

Gratitude and Appreciation

Another way marriage encourages spiritual growth is by fostering a spirit of gratitude and appreciation.

When you make a conscious effort to express thankfulness for your spouse's contributions and qualities, you create a positive atmosphere in your home.

This practice of gratitude extends into your relationship with God, helping you recognize His blessings in your life more readily.

Personal Accountability

Marriage is a mirror reflecting our actions and behaviors. It pushes us towards continuous improvement.

Each time you apologize, admit a mistake, or strive to be better, you’re engaging in spiritual growth. It’s a daily reminder to live with integrity and humility.

So, if you’re getting married or are already married, be prepared for the inevitable challenges.

When they arise, know that it doesn’t mean that your marriage is failing.

These challenges are there by design, intended for your growth. By navigating and overcoming them together, you will nurture a relationship that is even deeper and more enduring.

Every challenge faced is a step towards a more authentic connection with your spouse, paving the way for a truly fulfilling relationship.