The Many Forms of Intimacy
Jenny Block says intimacy exists in many forms (even on one night stands).
>
No one type of intimacy should be held as more valid or vital than another. And relationships that are not "traditional" should not be seen as barring or lacking in intimacy because, well, they're not. Intimacy within non-traditional relationships is just one variation among many. It is as legitimate and nourishing as the intimacy of traditional marriage. So why not open up to unexpected experiences of intimacy? Why not accept the value of intimacy, no matter where it comes from? Why not spend more time seeking to be happy than worrying about being right?
Discussion
People in monogamous marriages can know all the colors and flavors of intimacy. We have friends and family. We play board games. We talk to strangers. We have sexual intimacy with each other.
That's the only difference - our sexual intimacy is with each other only.
No, we don't have one-night stands, but I suspect the excited conversation with a stranger on a train is more intimate than a one-night stand anyway. Somehow if I were worried about the amount of intimacy in my life, I don't think I'd come up, I need more one-night stands!
My main point is just that yes, there are many kinds of intimacy in life. And being monogamous doesn't stop you from enjoying them.
I don't think this writer should be married. The intimacy of a marriage is supposed to be number one, not shared with whomever comes along. I still just don't understand why someone would choose to be married and willingly and knowingly refuse to uphold the marriage vows. Being in an open relationship is one thing but being married to a man that you cheat on every single day is another. It's just a shame that you can't find one person that gives you what you need. I actually feel sorry that you will never know what that love feels like and that you will never respect yourself or your husband enough to give him 100% of yourself.
