SWEEPING SHADOWS: Practical Solutions for Marriage

The book "SWEEPING SHADOWS: Practical Solutions for Marriage" is an intimate exploration of the intricate dynamics within marriage.

The author reflects on the experiences of married life, and how some couples attempt to resolve marital problems in ways that either only temporarily mask the real issues, or turns them into chronic pitfalls that never depart.

He notes that some of the difficulties that arise in the hallowed realm of matrimony are easily understood – with clearly identifiable causes; while others lie shrouded in mystery - their roots deeply concealed.

Marriage and its associated rules and norms manifests itself in diverse forms, each having distinct characteristics and dynamics. The choice of marriage is often influenced by cultural, religious, and personal factors.

In this book, the writer explores monogamy – the most common form of marriage that is based on the principle of exclusive commitment and fidelity between two individuals, whereby an individual weds only one partner at any given time.

Within this context, it is crucial to acknowledge that marriage isn't all sunshine and roses. Most individuals cross the threshold of marriage with wide-eyed-rosy optimism - but the moment storms arise, they begin to reconsider whether they should remain in a rocking boat. In some instances, without even pausing to reflect on possible alternatives or consequences, some partners abandon ship, ending the relationship abruptly.

Upon committing themselves to marriage, one quickly realizes that the marital journey is not smooth but undulating, where sometimes blissful moments outweigh the rugged ones; yet occasionally, the reverse is equally true with periods when storms persist and outweigh the happiness. Then the marriage is abruptly plunged into a shadow - the couple starts sweeping furiously but the gloom clings on and begins to follow them everywhere they go.

At its core, this book explores the notion that couples often scratch the surface as they attempt to resolve the symptoms or consequences of their marital confrontations, rather than delving deeper into the true root causes of the problem. Metaphorically described here as “sweeping the shadow”, these surface skimming attempts mirror the futile act of trying to scrub off a shadow from the ground with a broom when in reality a shadow - the mere absence of light, cannot be thus erased.

Within this metaphor, the thing obstructing the source of light thereby casting a shadow represents the spouse or issue responsible for the underlying marital dispute. This could be a cultural norm, personal habits, or any element contributing to the couple's struggles.

The author emphasizes the importance of grasping and addressing these root causes to achieve profound and lasting harmony in the institution of marriage.

Furthermore, this book suggests that the "broom" used to “sweep away” the provocation symbolizes the conventional approaches and problem-solving methods applied in marriage. The writer passionately encourages couples to explore alternative methods for resolving their marital disputes. These alternatives may involve adopting fresh perspectives, innovative solutions, or delving more profoundly into the prevailing matters at hand.