Compatibility
59
and impulse, not reason and judgment, in selecting a companion. Was
their marriage the result of true love? No, no; it was the result of
impulse—blind, unsanctified passion. Neither was at all fitted for the
responsibilities of married life. When the novelty of the new order
of things wore away, and each became acquainted with the other, did
their love become stronger, their affection deeper, and their lives blend
together in beautiful harmony? It was entirely the opposite. The worst
traits of their characters began to deepen by exercise; and, instead of
their married life being one of happiness, it has been one of increasing
trouble
For years I have been receiving letters from different persons who
have formed unhappy marriages, and the revolting histories opened
before me are enough to make the heart ache. It is no easy thing to
[86]
decide what advice can be given to these unfortunate ones, or how
their hard lot can be lightened; but their sad experience should be a
warning to others
[87]
8
Testimonies For The Church 5, 121, 122
.
9
Testimonies For The Church 5, 366
.