The Worst Thing About Marriage

Monogamy aside, the worst thing about marriage is how it drags you through life shackled to another person, your own desires held hostage by the relationship. Sometimes it doesn't matter, like when your mate is a clone and feels similarly about most things. But often the bonds that tether both of you limit the life experiences each might otherwise enjoy.

My husband loves to travel and is happiest on an airplane or in a foreign country. He even likes airports! I hate the whole business and start worrying about an upcoming trip many months in advance. This translates into Mitch seeing far less of the world than he might with a woman who shares his passion for adventure. (I feel guilty about it, but hey, I'm Jewish so it just adds to the mix.)

One particularly toxic result of togetherness at all costs is when one partner decides to end a friendship with another couple -- usually it's the female -- and the men stop talking too. Sadly, most husbands ascribe to the saying among seasoned real estate agents who have learned over the years, "Happy wife, happy life." 

I have witnessed this situation twice in my own marriage and it sucks. Mitch doesn't warm up to that many men, so when one goes it leaves a hole. Bottom line: I wish more men would grow a pair.