T. Dub Jackson
Cheating ruins marriages. It's a fact. It doesn't ruin every marriage it touches but it is a common enough culprit in the end of marriages that it's worth keeping in mind if you ever think of doing it again.
There are some who would argue that we live in a world that is somewhat jaded to the idea of monogamy but that isn't really the case. There is still an expectation of fidelity in marriage that is bone deep for many mend and women entering into marriages today.
But, why is cheating so harmful to the modern marriage?
1) A Failure to Communicate. What we have here goes beyond a mere failure to communicate. It's often the lies that are told in an effort to continue or maintain the affair that cause the most problems in the marriage. The breakdown of trust is major for many men and women on the receiving end. Lies beget lies and pretty soon there only communication being had is one lie on top of another. By the time the truth does come out your spouse has no idea what to believe any more.
2) It Promotes Insecurity in Your Spouse. Cheating on your spouse makes your spouse feel like the proverbial red-headed step-child. It doesn't instill confidence in self or in your marriage. In fact, it tears those things down. It sends the message to your spouse that he or she isn't good enough somehow and that you found someone better on the side.
3) Damages the Finances. Cheating isn't cheap. Hiding a relationship with another person requires some investment on hotels, takeout, and countless other odds and ends expenses you would otherwise not have. In the current economy every single penny matters. Many people rob savings accounts and retirement funds in order to hide the costs involved in cheating. When the spouse finds out it is devastating financially as well as emotionally.
4) Cheating is Risky Business. It's sad to say that in this day and age that would even need to be mentioned. Of course, with nearly 60% of all people in a committed relationship admitting to having cheated, it must be said. Not only are you endangering your health but also the health of your spouse who is likely not to be protecting against STDs from you. You can't be too careful when it comes to safe sex and far too people in the throws of a torrid affair are careful enough.
