What kind of marriage is the best model?
In “Love of Parents,” An Jie and Jiang Defu are seen by many as having a perfect marriage.
Jiang Defu, though from a rural background, has risen above his humble beginnings, lacking in education but with a certain status. An Jie, beautiful, intelligent, and cultured, complements Jiang Defu’s shortcomings.
They support each other, tolerating each other for a lifetime, not grand but nurturing each other like a gentle rain.
Their marriage is what Lao Ding envies the most. Despite his merits, Lao Ding’s marriage is far from ideal.
Married to Wang Xiue arranged by his parents in his youth, she is impeccable in raising their children and managing the household.
However, Lao Ding and Wang Xiue are clearly not on the same page. Lao Ding loves learning and hopes to find a woman like An Jie for deep connection, but his life never goes as he wishes.
Without comparison, there is no harm. While living a mundane life, Lao Ding feels like he is just getting by in his marriage, while Jiang Defu next door seems to have poetry and distant dreams.
Marriages like Jiang Defu and An Jie’s are rare, starting imperfect but becoming enviable through their diligent efforts.
Lao Ding’s life aligns more with the reality of many, making choices that are common. His desires always seem out of reach, leaving him unfulfilled.
Not Knowing How to Choose.
Lao Ding, born poor, values his own future. Marrying Wang Xiue out of obligation, he suppresses his dissatisfaction, unable to rebel against family or abandon his responsibilities.
On the other hand, Lao Ding fulfills his duties as a man and respects his parents. However, this filial piety has defined his life.
If he had fought for his own interests before marriage, like Jiang Defu did, he might have married someone he liked.
Lao Ding’s inaction stems from his character flaws, showing irresponsibility towards his own life.
After Wang Xiue’s death, wanting to marry Teacher Ge, social barriers lead to a separation.
Lao Ding lacks Jiang Defu’s honesty. Despite facing challenges to marry An Jie, they stood firm in their decision, ensuring a lifetime of happiness.
Lao Ding, burdened by many concerns, especially regarding his children, hesitates to pursue his desires. Unlike An Jie, Teacher Ge refrains from seeking happiness actively, leading to missed opportunities.
Two timid individuals drive away happiness, destined for such outcomes.
Lao Ding admires Jiang Defu’s marriage but fails to take the necessary steps, ultimately accumulating regrets.
Many people face similar dilemmas, hesitating when happiness is within reach, only to regret it later.
After Continuous Compromise, Settle for Mediocrity.
Lao Ding’s marriage to De Hua is a compromise. While De Hua is good in many aspects, Lao Ding desires a woman he truly likes.
De Hua lacks education, but her kindness and dedication to her family overshadow her limitations.
Although De Hua is a kind woman, she is not the type Lao Ding desires. The unattainable often fuels stronger desires.
Marrying De Hua, Lao Ding resigns to his fate. Not everyone achieves their desires like Jiang Defu.
Surprisingly, De Hua, shaped by her experiences, is not entirely like Wang Xiue. Despite her lack of education, she manages family relationships well and earns respect from their children, even bearing a daughter for Lao Ding.
In the latter part of his life, despite not finding a soulmate, De Hua’s care brings happiness to Lao Ding.
His choice aligns with the reality of many, accepting imperfections and finding contentment.
While everyone yearns for a love like Jiang Defu and An Jie’s, life may not always comply with our desires.
If fate slips through your fingers, keep moving forward instead of drowning in regret.
Life may compensate for its shortcomings in unexpected ways.
Lao Ding’s compromises in marriage, though not ideal, teach him not to expect too much, understanding that nothing is perfect.
De Hua may not be outstanding, but she is the right match for Lao Ding.
In the adult world, there is no absolute right or wrong, requiring a balance between pros and cons.
Despite many disappointments, life must go on. Pursuing happiness is universal.
Marriage is not just romance but also daily life, encompassing the mundane aspects of existence.
This is the authentic life of ordinary people.