Shannon Keough“Love and marriage, love and marriage, go together like a horse and carriage.” Does that verse from Frank Sinatra’s hit song ring a bell to you? It was the opening theme song to the once-popular television sitcom, “Married…With Children.”
I always found it hysterical that they chose that particular song to introduce every episode. Al and Peg Bundy weren’t exactly the poster couple for perfect marriages. When I first saw the show, I thought their little love union sucked.
They constantly insulted one another and never seemed content with anything. Even though there was a laugh reel played after every cheap shot they threw at each other, I still felt a little uncomfortable watching it. Mind you, I was only 15 years old at the time. And although I’m only 19 now, I’ve learned a lot over the past four years that I was clueless about previously.
Okay, so you start out in a relationship that you think will last forever. Sure, the first few months may be absolutely incredible. Your significant other spoils you with a ridiculous amount of love and affection, and you feel like you’re living on cloud nine.
News flash to all you 14 year olds who are so “madly in love”: don’t mean to burst your bubble, but you’re living in a fantasy world. Being in a real relationship is work. Marriage is even harder. So even though your Jimmy or Johnny may have posted “I love Krissy so much, my life was incomplete without her” in his AIM info, it’s not real life.
Being in a relationship as an everyday person is difficult enough. Could you imagine being in the spotlight? Paparazzi and cameras following you every second of your life?
Umm…. hello!! I’d freak-a-leak if I were in their shoes. Like seriously, it’s ridiculous how tabloids won’t just leave these “celebrities” alone. I felt like I was actually a part of Jon & Kate’s divorce, and Brad’s mini-affair with Angelina.
I know that we have more important things to do with our lives than read about these people. Literally, we’re in a recession. I won’t deny that I purchase magazines filled with celeb info. But there’s no way in hell I’ll ever purchase anything less than the truth… I’m talking People, Cosmo, Life & Style. This Star Magazine and Enquirer crap is out of control.
Example: the John Edward’s scandal. Yes, he cheated and got another woman pregnant. Yes, he is a scum bag who used his wife’s cancer to gain votes in the election. But, for the sake of his wife, it should have never been given as much attention as it was. I’m glad that he got caught, but what happened was such a personal issue that it should have been dealt with privately.
I know I’m only a college sophomore with little life experience. You’re probably wondering why I feel like I have the authority to hand out advice to people who have been in relationships for years. I don’t. I have no right whatsoever. I just observe and take it all in. I’ve watched my parents, best girlfriends and family members. I see what works and what doesn’t.
I guess my only request, if any, is to butt out. Easier said than done, but don’t pass judgement if you don’t know the facts. Whether you’re dating, in a relationship or have been married for many years, there’s one simple rule or “philosophy” that should be followed. I think Maroon 5 said it best.
“It’s not always rainbows and butterflies, it’s compromise that moves us along.”
