Marriage is a cultural union

Marriage is often considered a cultural union; because it is a social institution that is deeply rooted in cultural norms and tradi­tions. In many cultures, marriage is not just a union between two individ­uals, but a union between families, tribes, or even entire communities.

Marriage is a cultural union or institution that varies across different societies and cultures, but it typi­cally involves certain common ele­ments, such as a public declaration of commitment, a legal contract, and a religious or social ceremony.

In many cultures, marriage is also closely tied to religious or spiritual beliefs, and may involve elaborate ceremonies and rituals that reflect these beliefs. For example, in African and Christian dominated cultures, the wedding ceremony is usually seen as a sacred union between a man and woman, and involves a number of traditional rituals and customs that symbolise the couple’s commitment to each other and to their shared spiritual path.

The cultural significance of mar­riage varies widely across cultures, but some common themes include the formation of social bonds, the establishment of a family unit, and the preservation of cultural values and traditions. Marriage is often seen as a way to ensure the continuation of a particular culture or way of life, as well as a way to transmit cultural knowledge and values to future gen­erations.

Generally, marriage can be seen as a cultural union because it is deeply embedded in the social and cultural fabric of many societies around the world. It serves as a powerful symbol of social cohesion and continuity, and reflects the values and beliefs of the communities in which it is practised.

In Christianity, marriage is often viewed as a sacred covenant between a man and a woman, established by God for the purpose of companion­ship, procreation, and the establish­ment of a family unit. While marriage is viewed as a union between two individuals, it is also seen as a union between God, the couple, and their community. The Christian view of marriage as a cultural union is rooted in the belief that human beings are created in the image of God and are therefore endowed with the capacity for love, relationship, and community.

Marriage is seen as a reflection of the triune nature of God, who exists in a perfect relationship of love and unity between Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Christian teachings emphasise the importance of fidelity, commit­ment, and self-sacrifice in marriage, and stress the importance of main­taining a strong and healthy relation­ship between spouses.

In many Christian traditions, marriage is also seen as a sacrament, a sacred rite that confers spiritual grace and blessings on the couple. The wedding ceremony is often con­ducted in a Church or other religious settings, and may involve rituals and customs that reflect the couple’s Christian faith and commitment to each other.

Essentially, the Christian view of marriage as a cultural union em­phasizes the importance of love, commitment, and community in the establishment of a lifelong partner­ship between a man and a woman. It is seen as a sacred covenant between God, the couple, and their communi­ty, and serves as a powerful symbol of the values and beliefs of the Christian faith.

To be continued …

Source: Excerpts from ‘Preparing for a Happy and Fulfilling Marriage’ Book by REV. COUNSELOR PRINCE OFFEI (Psychotherapist and Marriage Therapist). https://counselorprince­ass.wixsite.com/edu-counseling-psych

https://princeoffei22.wixsite. com/website-psychologist

https://princeoffei22.wixsite. com/website

COUNSELOR PRINCE & ASSOCIATES CONSULT (CPAC COUNSELLOR TRAIN­ING INSTITUTE)

 As divorce is on the increase in numerous places in the world, blended families have become a common type of household. Many families have a lot of difficulties nav­igating this unique family situation with success.

A major reason is that members of blended families need to make many adjustments in their lives. The transition can be problematic. And trying to force it can breed conflict and resentment.

Last week we looked at four tips that would help ease the transition, this week we continue with another four tips.

5. Keep the biological connec­tions strong

Encourage all the children to keep a close connection to both of their biological parents. It may be difficult when they live different cities, but it is not impossible.

When you are supportive in this way and respectful of the ex-spouses, the children will see that it is not a competition for affection. Rather, it shows them that you truly care about their happiness.

6. Give support to the children who have to live in two households

Show compassion and understand­ing to the children who have to move back and forth. Do not assume all is fine but be ready to listen when they need you.

They may worry about missing out on something while they are gone. They may also still have a lot of unre­solved feelings about the end of their biological parent’s marriage or the death of one of their parents.

The moment of packing up and moving once again can be highly emotional and feel overwhelming to them. Be by their side.

7. Nurture your marriage

Of course, the transition is not just tough on the children but also for you and your spouse. You will need your partner’s support and they need yours. So, do not forget to make time for each other and cultivate closeness. Your relationship needs to be strong to make a success of your new blended family.

Enjoy date nights and keep your bond strong. Your children will natu­rally fall in place behind your lead.

8. Expect to adjust

With proper help and guidance, children can recover from family disruption. All children experience a difficult adjustment period following a divorce or remarriage.

It takes time, patience, and per­haps some professional assistance, but most children are able to regain their emotional bearings. It is critical that the adults manage their own emotional recovery in order to help the children adjust without trauma.

Source- eddinscounseling.com