It was not that long ago that a read an intriguing article, Which Generation Has The Best Marriages? by Haydin Shaw. For my purposes here I simply want to look at the strengths different generations have to offer one another when it comes to marriage.
The Traditionalists (Born before 1946)
This group of couples value fidelity and faithfulness over questions of “happiness.” They often see other generations as giving up on marriage too easily. Shaw states that, “Though some traditionalists were not happy or fulfilled in their marriages, many grew into love that brought happiness and fulfillment.”
Baby Boomers (1946 – 1964)
While Boomers have experienced greater numbers of divorces and have been less happy than other generations, they also tend to have higher expectations for marriage. From them we can learn that having higher expectations can motivate us to seek help towards resolving problems and restoring marriages to what we had always hoped they would be.
Generation X (1965-1980}
As this generation saw the divorce of so many parents, they have been more motivated to not put their children through this same experience. They recognize that marriages have hard spots and require work. This generation has set an example that has made it easier for all generations to ask for help.
Millennials (1981- 1998)
This generation has gained the wisdom to welcome encouragement and advice. They realize that they are not an island and that they can readily learn from those who have traveled this marriage road ahead of them.
Different generations have approached marriage differently. And yet, rather than criticizing how each has handled, or mishandled, these relationships, it is clearly possible to learn from the strengths of each other. I think we all have some listening and growing to do.