What Marriage Means

Marriage is the
relationship
between a man
and a woman who
have made a
legal agreement
to live together.

When a man and woman marry,
they become husband and wife.
Marriage is also an important
religious ceremony in many of
the world's religions.

In India and many other countries,
most marriages are arranged by parents'
deciding whom their children will marry.
But in Western countries, including the
United States and Canada, nearly everyone
makes his or her own decision about whom
and when to marry.

Most couples decide to marry because
they love each other and want
to spend the rest of their
lives together.

A man and woman who marry usually hope
to share a special sexual relationship
and a permanent romantic attraction.
But each hopes the other will always
be a close friend as well. Each also
expects the other to help with many problems
and to share certain responsibilities.
These responsibilities include earning a living,
budgeting money, paying bills, preparing meals,
and taking care of a home.

In the United States, about 21/2 million couples
marry each year. However, many people choose
never to marry. Some people who remain single
may not find a mate with whom they want to share
their life. Others may not want the many
responsibilities required of a successful marriage.
Still others prefer to stay unmarried because they
enjoy their independence.

Most couples who marry plan to have children and to
raise them together. A husband and wife are required
by law to protect and care for their children.
Marriage thus serves as the basis of family life.