Marriage is a fundamental social institution that has been in existence for centuries. It is a union between two individuals who promise to love, respect, and support each other through thick and thin. However, as times change, so do our perceptions of marriage. In recent years, there have been a lot of discussions about what marriage means and how it should be defined.

To some, marriage is a religious sacrament while to others, it is a legal contract. For some, it is an expression of love while for others, it is a means to procreate and ensure the continuation of their family lineage. Nevertheless, regardless of how it is perceived, marriage plays an essential role in our society.

In the past, marriage was seen as a union between a man and a woman. However, with the changing times and shifting attitudes towards gender and sexuality, marriage has been redefined to include same-sex couples. This has sparked debates about whether or not same-sex marriage should be accepted and legalized.

Those who oppose same-sex marriage often argue that it goes against tradition and religious beliefs. They also argue that it could weaken the institution of marriage and lead to the breakdown of the family unit. On the other hand, proponents of same-sex marriage argue that love is love regardless of gender, and denying someone the right to marriage based on their sexual orientation is discriminatory and against their basic human rights.

Another significant change in our perception of marriage is the rise of cohabitation. In the past, it was seen as taboo for couples to live together before getting married. However, in recent years, more and more couples are choosing to cohabit before tying the knot. This has led to a decrease in the number of marriages and an increase in the number of long-term relationships.

Proponents of cohabitation argue that it allows individuals to test the waters before making a lifelong commitment. This helps to ensure that you are compatible with your partner and that there are no unpleasant surprises down the line. However, opponents argue that cohabitation goes against traditional values and that couples who cohabit are less likely to stay together.

In conclusion, marriage has always been an essential institution in our society. As the world changes and our attitudes shift, our perception of marriage will continue to evolve. However, regardless of how it is defined, marriage should always be a union of love, respect, and support.