While reading, I came across a quote saying “Isn’t it great when your spouse, can also be your friend?” Taking this quote to a whole new level is a new form of relationship, which is quite different from the traditional notion of marriage, called Friendship Marriage in Japan.
A Japanese agency, Colorus which specializes in friendship marriages, revealed that approximately 1% of Japan’s population is choosing to get married to their friends. It is quite a popular trend amongst asexuals, homosexuals, and heterosexuals who don’t want a conventional marriage setup. Highly educated and financially stable individuals are the ones choosing for such a marriage in Japan.
Friendship Marriage is a cohabiting partnership based on mutual interests and values rather than romantic affection. In such a scenario, the two individuals are legally married to each other but choose to not engage in physical or romantic intimacy with each other. These couples choose to opt for other medical procedures to have children.
This took me back to a scene from the popular sitcom Friends, where the central characters discuss getting married to their best friends if they don’t end up finding a potential partner for themselves.
Why is Friendship Marriage trending?
Even relationship experts are of the view that it is very important for spouses to be friends with each other more. Some reasons why Friendship Marriage is positive:
- Respect: Respect is the foundation for any relationship. As friends, we respect each other’s choices, opinions and individuality. This can help in building up a strong bond, which is one of the essentials for a successful marriage.
- Understanding: There is no fear of judgment because as friends we understand each other. A deep level of understanding will help to build a harmonious marriage.
- Familiarity: When you start as being friends first, it’s the best way to go, it becomes easier to get along. There is a lot of compatibility. You know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. This way, you can support each other through various challenges that come your way.
- Companionship: Marrying a friend can be because you emphasize on having a relationship that lasts long because as friends you have already gone through various phases of your life.
- Sense of Comfort: When you enter into a marriage with a friend, there is already a deep level of trust. You can be yourself and feel secure in each other’s company.
- Fewer Complications: As your partner already knows you, your likes and dislikes. You both can help each other in various aspects of your life, be it handling finances, making personal decisions and living arrangements.
- Meeting Social Expectations: Marriage is seen as a necessary social norm. People might choose to marry their friends to avoid any further pressure and to meet social expectations.
Friendship marriage can indeed be a great option as it is not just based solely on duty and societal expectations but one based on mutual understanding, laughter, shared experiences, shared interests and more. These relationships are genuine, deep and filled with joy. Remember, the happiest connections stem from friendship, where love grows naturally and authentically.
Also Read Relationship Expert’s take on – Are we ready for the “Friendship Marriage” trend to become a new relationship norm?