Would you stay in a bad marriage for the children? (For better or worse!)

If every spouse walked out of a marriage because things are not working, I don’t think we would have families anymore. Walking out of a marriage is not the solution to the problems you face as a couple.

Thursday, October 10, 2013
Doreen Umutesi

If every spouse walked out of a marriage because things are not working, I don’t think we would have families anymore. Walking out of a marriage is not the solution to the problems you face as a couple.

In fact when you separate or divorce because there have been misunderstandings and there are children involved, more problems will arise. Children are a gift from God. They will always strengthen the bond between their parents. Marriage vows recited in church or during a civil marriage go like, "I take you to be my (husband/wife). I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad times, in sickness and in health, for better or for worse, until death do us part”.I believe that from day one, people know that marriage is not a bed of roses. Therefore divorce or separation should not be the solution to the problems you face as a couple; all you need is to communicate, and if communication fails then seek external help from family and friends. Do not give up that easily.  For better or worse, I will stay. Divorce or separation greatly affects children in more ways than some parents understand. First of all, they are not sure which side to take and no child wants to be torn between two parents. Children are innocent but they are the ones that are most affected during the separation or divorce. If things don’t seem to be working out, as a couple, you can seek professional help from a marriage counselor and if you are Christians you should try talking to your Pastor at church; he/she can provide possible solutions that will help you in the long run instead of giving up on the marriage. One thing for sure is, every married couple has their fair share of fights. It’s never easy, but you owe it yourselves and the kids to make it work and it doesn’t matter if your partner is cheating or is a perpetual drunkard. However, try not to seek advice from your single friends because they will definitely convince you to walk out.