I see some reports about how divorce has soared during the quarantine. My own marriage would probably be dissolving bc of quarantine except I decided to take back the definition of marriage that I had let the church and society decide for me. 1/6

Marriage is a contract. As long as both sides obey the contract, it works. Sometimes contracts need to be broken. Sometimes they need to be modified. All contracts require honesty from both parties. 2/6

So my spouse and I have been more honest in the past month than in the 23 years of marriage, and our contract is still intact. But we both are giving each other grace if we decide to break it. It would be fine. I've deconstructed my feelings about divorce. 3/6

I've also deconstructed my feelings about marriage. Marriage needs a purpose. Is it to be a companion? Have children? Is it for financial security?

But it is NOT to complete another person. You can't do that. You will always fall short. That was what I tried for 23 years. 4/6

I let that go.

Honesty is key. Having purpose is key. No matter if our marriage fails in the eyes of the world or the church, it has not failed in my eyes. It has accomplished its purpose. I am no longer held hostage by the world or my church. I feel free and happier. 5/6

So statistics about divorce rates don't scare me. They signal good changes in people's lives. I am living without fear in this area. Maybe it's the fear that is holding us back anyway. 6/end