RIP Romance — Cause of Death: Marriage
It’s unrealistic to expect the exhilarating excitement, passion, and those delightful butterflies that come with new love to last forever. However, is it too much to ask our partners to put in a little effort to keep the romance alive? Our confessional collection is filled with frustrated partners yearning for a spark—some are reflective, others express sadness, and a few even bring humor into the mix.
Even if your relationship has spanned more years than it hasn’t, the effort to woo your partner should never fade away completely, even when the initial thrill has dimmed. BRB, adding “farmer blowing” to Urban Dictionary, because every woman knows that foghorn blow all too well.
Many confessions reveal a painful honesty about the need for romantic gestures and reciprocation in relationships.
Confessional #27849073
“In my opinion, if men genuinely romanced women and gave their attention & affection freely, women would respond with more intimacy than they could handle. Yet, when a woman offers incredible intimacy without receiving the same in return, she’s left with nothing but disappointment.”
Confessional #27849321
“I don’t want to lose our comfortable life. If only I could tell him I’d stay if we had an open marriage. I crave passion, intimacy, romance, love, and all the things he isn’t providing. But I know he wouldn’t agree. So, I guess divorce is on the horizon.”
A recurring sentiment among those feeling trapped in a monotonous marriage is the struggle to communicate their desires to their partners. According to Psychology Today, ineffective communication is often the biggest barrier to true intimacy. Despite the wealth of advice available, many couples still find it challenging to articulate their needs and feelings.
Confessional #27849019
“My husband was a colossal letdown this weekend. Over and over again. I desperately need a man to romance me. He makes no effort to make me feel cherished or cared for. I’m so unattracted to this big child.”
Technology has further complicated intimacy in relationships. While it provides an easy way to connect, it also serves as a distraction. How many of us end the day scrolling on our phones, sitting apart instead of seeking closeness? So much for romantic evenings once the kids are asleep! We need to prioritize time together beyond our daily routines to rekindle that spark.
Confessional #27458963
“We went on vacation, but the romance was flat and the intimacy nearly nonexistent. Being surrounded by couples who genuinely enjoy each other only highlighted how sad my marriage has become. I just spent money to feel worse.”
It’s true—comparison can sabotage our happiness. It’s easy to feel inadequate when it seems like everyone around you has a perfect relationship, leaving you questioning the state of your own marriage.
After having children, especially for new moms, it can be tough to feel good about oneself and embrace the changes to your body. You’re exhausted, overwhelmed, and consumed by the needs of a tiny human, with romance falling to the wayside. Sometimes, we just need our partners to take the initiative.
Confessional #24788456
“I feel like it’s all over. My days of childbearing are behind me. The early years of my kids’ lives are gone. My youthful body is gone. My career growth is stalled. Romance? Over. I’m only 33. Is it really over already?”
Nostalgia can be powerful. We often yearn for the simplicity of the past or the thrill of new love that used to make our hearts race.
Confessional #24567201
“I really miss the thrill and excitement that comes with new love. I adore my husband, but it’s been ages since I felt that spark. A first kiss would be incredible.”
If you resonate with these sentiments, know that you’re not alone. And when communication with your partner falters, there’s always the fictional world of charming characters who can provide a momentary escape.
For more relatable insights, check out this article on our blog. And if you’re looking for authoritative information on pregnancy, consider visiting Make a Mom or Wikipedia for excellent resources on home insemination.