riage usually gets better after the kids grow up and are more self sufficient, giving the parents more time to enjoy each other in a more relaxed way (Carlson & Buskist, 1997). Even though most couples will not wait until the good old days to come back, I see marriage as more positive today than in the past. People are getting married later, because they are in love, and know that they can always end the relationship if they are not satisfied. Before, couples went through hell together but would not, or could not get divorced. People also remarrying more than they used to, searching for another partner to share their lives, and in some times finding happiness with the second or third partner, which is very positive if it happens. Children are also more understanding nowadays than before, because a child will hardly ever be the only child with divorced parents in his or her group of friends, or in school. They are also more open to having a stepparent than before, and some times this is better for the child than not having that figure. I do not see marriage as a declining institution, but as a changing one. It always takes energy, and is emotionally disturbing to go through a divorce, but it is the key for a good adjustment, if one is not satisfied with his or her marriage. Everybody has to seek their happiness, no matter how many contracts they have to break. They can always sign another one, or live an “illegitimate” life style, without going through the whole trouble of marriage. People can live without the “legal proof” they love each other. I believe it is good to have a spouse to share one’s life with, but if it is not working, it is better to go separate ways, whatever it takes to make one happy. That is the popular attitude today, and I believe it will continue to be in the future; the wish of finding happiness. ...
