Is the institution defunct?

[forward]

I don't think that the institution is defunct.

But essentially it is a lifelong contractual obligation that most people make when they are very young. Consequently, people make mistakes.

I do believe that if both people are committed to growing TOGETHER, and are willing to do some very difficult self-examination that is not necessarily fun at all, you really can work through some of the toughest situations. You have to be willing to grow through and with someone.

The question makes me realize I am optimistic about marriage even now.