This chapter of our lives has certainly thrown us some curveballs. It’s no secret that the early years of marriage can be tough; after all, we’re right in the thick of it. I’m not alone in feeling this way, either. I’ve seen a number of young couples around our age announcing the end of their marriages lately. At first, I found it hard to comprehend how relationships that had just begun could unravel so quickly. But during our quiet evenings, both of us glued to our phones after exhausting days, I can understand why some couples struggle.
It’s true what they say about marriage—it’s not always a breeze. I think we can both admit that navigating the “for better or for worse” part hasn’t always been easy. In just a few years, we’ve faced new job opportunities, unexpected job losses, and positions that drained us emotionally. We’ve experienced moves, a miscarriage, illnesses, and the loss of loved ones. Financial stress and adult responsibilities have piled up in ways I never imagined for two people like us.
Integrating parenthood into our lives has been especially challenging. We find ourselves arguing over things that likely wouldn’t arise without kids—like who gets up at the crack of dawn on weekends, who deals with tantrums in public, and why cookies make their way into our toddler’s hands just before a meal.
Our time alone together is scarce, and when we do manage it, it’s usually filled with mundane tasks. We catch up on our favorite series, wander through stores like Target just to enjoy a moment of peace, or indulge in movie nights filled with the snacks we usually keep from our kids. Our once-vibrant conversations and laughter have dwindled; exhaustion often leads us to turn our attention to our screens instead of each other.
There have been moments during our trivial disagreements when we both have questioned if this is just how it is supposed to be. Have we lost the magic? We’ve wondered if we’re the only ones struggling to entertain our energetic toddler on those long weekends.
Since exchanging vows and becoming parents, we’ve neglected our own needs and our relationship in favor of sleep. Let’s be honest—we might be sporting a bit of that “parent bod” now. Nights out with friends have become rare, and when we do try to stay up late, it’s a wild night if we make it past ten! Our version of a party these days? Ordering pizza to avoid cooking and cleaning.
In merely three years, our marriage has transformed significantly. And while it may not seem thrilling from the outside, I want you to know that I expected these challenges. I’m not foolish enough to think we’ll just “get through” the hard stuff. Life isn’t like riding a bike where you master the tough parts and then cruise smoothly; every new chapter brings its own obstacles.
But even amidst the struggles, I cherish our life together. I love our uncomplicated, quirky existence. Even when my actions may not express it, I love you during those quiet moments spent in front of the TV because I’m right beside you. I love you as we tackle financial concerns and tough decisions together. Despite the challenges we’ve encountered as a young couple, I recognize this is simply a phase, and I am grateful to be experiencing it with you.
Yes, there will be times when things get tough—and more challenges are certainly on the horizon. There will be days filled with affection and others when we may not feel so fondly. We’ll face blissful moments alongside hardships that test our resolve. We’ll navigate an ever-changing landscape of parenthood, budgets, and life’s unpredictability. Through it all, one thing will remain constant: I will love you and our life together through every season.
As we continue to grow, just remember that I’m in it for the long haul.
Summary:
This heartfelt letter reflects on the challenges of early marriage and parenthood. The author acknowledges the difficulties faced during this phase while emphasizing love and commitment through all seasons of life together.
Keyphrase:
Early marriage challenges