Reports: King Amoah
In a world where social media often glorifies high-status relationships, the journey to a stable and fulfilling marriage can become convoluted, especially for the youth.
Recently, marriage counselor Madam Elizabeth Freeman, based in Sunyani in the Brong Ahafo region of Ghana, offered invaluable advice aimed at helping young individuals navigate the often tumultuous waters of romantic relationships.
Her counsel emphasizes the importance of choosing partners of equal capacity rather than pursuing high-class partners, an approach she believes can lead to more stable and enduring marriages.
The Modern Relationship Landscape:
Today’s young people face unique pressures in their romantic lives. The rise of consumer culture, fueled by social media, has shifted perceptions of love and partnership.
Many may feel compelled to seek partners who mirror the vibrant lifestyles they see online, gravitating towards those who appear to have higher social status, financial wealth, or prestigious backgrounds.
However, as Madam Freeman points out, relationships based on disparity in capacity—be it financial, educational, or social—can introduce a slew of complications.
Inequalities in status can lead to feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, and tension, ultimately destabilizing the foundational elements of a healthy marriage.
Choosing Partners of Equal Capacity.
Madam Freeman encourages the youth to look beyond ostensible markers of success and status when choosing a life partner.
“Finding someone who shares your goals, values, and socio economic standing paves the way for mutual understanding and support,” she explains.
She noted that couples with similar backgrounds often find it easier to relate to each other’s challenges and aspirations, fostering an environment where both partners can thrive.
This notion is grounded in the principle that healthy relationships are built on equality and respect.
When partners stand on equal footing, they are more likely to communicate openly, resolve conflicts constructively, and build a partnership that is resilient to the inevitable ups and downs of life.
In her sessions, Madam Freeman often discusses the importance of compatibility, which goes beyond financial status. Emotional intelligence, shared values, life goals, and mutual respect are equally critical factors in creating a harmonious relationship.
The importance of emotional connection cannot be overstated; individuals who relate to each other on a deeper level are more capable of weathering life’s storms together.
Moreover, she urges young couples to embrace the virtues of patience and understanding as they embark on their journeys together.
Love may begin with attraction, but it is sustained by compatibility, shared responsibilities, and active commitment to one another’s growth and happiness.
In a time when the divorce rate is rising globally, her guidance serves as a timely reminder: marrying someone who is on a similar path creates harmony, reinforces solidarity, and cultivates emotional resilience.
