Andre Maurois: 'A successful marriage is an edifice that must be rebuilt every day.'

A successful marriage is an edifice that must be rebuilt every day.

"A successful marriage is an edifice that must be rebuilt every day." - Andre MauroisThe quote by Andre Maurois encapsulates the essence of a thriving and lasting marriage. It signifies that a successful marital relationship requires constant effort and renewal. Rather than taking the institution of marriage for granted, Maurois suggests that it is akin to a grand structure that needs ongoing maintenance, care, and attention. This simple, yet profound, statement emphasizes the importance of consistent dedication and conscientiousness in ensuring a healthy and fulfilling marriage.As we delve deeper into the quote, an unexpected philosophical concept comes to mind — the philosophy of existentialism. This theory, popularized by thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche, posits that individuals must create their own meaning and purpose in life. Applied to marriage, existentialism suggests that couples must actively construct the purpose and direction of their relationship every day.In comparing the quote with existentialism, we can see that both emphasize the need for continuous effort in shaping and maintaining a successful union. Much like an edifice that requires constant repairs and renovations to remain sturdy, a marriage demands ongoing investment and reinvention. This daily rebuilding process entails unraveling new layers of understanding, mutual growth, and adapting to the changing dynamics that naturally arise within relationships.Contrastingly, conventional notions of marriage often depict it as a fixed entity, a milestone achieved once and for all. Society often views marriage as a destination rather than a journey, leaving many couples ill-prepared for the challenges and intricacies that lie ahead. Andre Maurois challenges this notion by asserting that marriage is not a static accomplishment but rather a dynamic work-in-progress that necessitates everyday reconstruction.Marriages that fail to recognize the need for this continuous rejuvenation risk becoming stagnant, rigid, and ultimately unsatisfying. Many relationships falter because couples grow complacent, assuming that once the vows are exchanged, the hard work is complete. However, this blinkered perception overlooks the natural evolution of individuals and their relationship over time.To commit to the philosophy of daily reconstruction in marriage is to embrace vulnerability, flexibility, and open communication. It is an acknowledgment that both partners are flawed, ever-changing beings who require constant nurturing and growth to flourish together. By recognizing this truth, couples can avoid the traps of complacency and actively engage in the process of ongoing renewal.The need for daily rebuilding in a marriage invites couples to reflect on their shared goals and aspirations. It prompts them to engage in meaningful conversations, explore their individual and collective values, and consistently align themselves with the principles that define their relationship. Rather than passively coasting through marriage, partnering with intentionality and purpose allows couples to forge a bond that is fortified by shared dreams, mutual respect, and unwavering commitment.Moreover, the process of continuously rebuilding a marriage fosters intimacy and connection. It compels couples to prioritize quality time, emotional transparency, and genuine effort to understand and meet each other's needs. By actively engaging in this process, couples cultivate an environment of trust, where both partners feel seen, heard, and valued. The commitment to daily reconstruction becomes the cornerstone of a resilient and thriving marital relationship.In conclusion, Andre Maurois' quote highlights the enduring significance of daily reconstruction in sustaining a successful marriage. By comparing the quote to existentialist philosophy, we can appreciate the profoundness of Maurois' words. A thriving relationship is not an inert structure, but an ever-evolving, living entity that demands the active investment of time, effort, and commitment. Embracing this philosophy allows couples to navigate the challenges and complexities of marriage while fostering intimacy, growth, and enduring love. So, let us approach marriage not as a destination but as an ongoing journey of shared construction, where every day gives us the opportunity to rebuild and strengthen the edifice of our union.