Prison bars or pillars?

I recently read these two short articles on marriage that really got me thinking:

Prison Bars or Pillars, by Janie B. Cheaney

Stretch Marks, by Andree Seu Peterson

Much of the time, I think our society sees marriage (and parenthood) as prison bars holding us back, instead of the pillars on which society rests. But as in most situations, its all about perspective and expectations.

If you expect your marriage and children to make you happy, you'll fail. If you see your family as the place where God is forming you after His own heart, stretching you and getting rid of your selfishness, pride, anger, and other sins and perfecting you into a person of holiness, grace, love, and self-control, you'll find joy.

So grateful for my imperfect family today.