MARRIAGE: SEXUAL ASPECT
The sexual aspect of marriage is vitally important. While it may be possible to have a happy marriage and yet not have a satisfactory sexual relationship, such a situation is the exception rather than the rule. Happiness in the marriage bond may not be entirely dependent upon the mutually satisfactory sexual arrangements and attitudes; however, in practice, to a large extent, marital contentment is usually closely bound up with this side of marriage.
There are many couples who have sexually drifted apart. Some of these may declare that they are quite content with things as they are, that they are in no need of such satisfactions as others may obtain from a sexual relationship with their partners. However, it is a matter of record that such relationships are fragile at best, for one or the other (or sometimes both) of the marriage partners will come to the place when they tire of this arrangement, and it is not long before a secret liaison is established with someone else. In other words, it is easy to fool ourselves that we have no physical and emotional needs which are normally satisfied with a sexual relationship within marriage; but literally millions of couples have proved that, by adopting this attitude they have done themselves—and their marriage—an irreparable disservice.
For those who have found a satisfying relationship with their marriage partners, the sexual side of marriage almost invariably demonstrates the fact that this very thing which is often abused, scoffed at and made light of, is fundamental to the smooth operation of the marriage and an integral part of the warmth of companionship that true marriage is founded upon.
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