John Y’s Musings from the Middle: Polygamy vs. Monogamy

Polygamy vs Monogamy.

An ordinary married couple discusses the pros and cons. And realities.

I love laughing with my wife about about bizarre speculative situations….Like just now.  My wife and I are talking about Muslim culture, women’s roles, and polygamy.  Rebecca asked if I would practice polygamy if I had been born into Muslim culture. And smiled anticipating my answer….Kind of put me on the spot… a little bit.

I said, “Look honey, you know me. I’m not…..I’m not really the martyr type. I wouldn’t want to marry other women, of course. But would do it to, you know, so people wouldn’t talk bad about you. Because, like, if I was the only monogamist in a polygamist culture people start talking and assuming things about me and, you know, maybe think you were the cause. I could never allow that perception of you to happen and so would marry other women just to preserve your reputation in the community. Again, not that I’d want to. You know, When in Rome….”

We were both laughing hysterically at this riff….and then it was Rebecca’s turn.

“You’d be an awful polygamist. You know how I get upset when you are late or or don’t give me your full attention when talking sometimes? Or if you text me instead of call me? Well, multiply that 5 times! Those 5 wives would be so angry and fed up with you.

“Where is he?” “Are you kidding?” “He’s a mess.” “We know he’ll never take the garbage out.”

“They would be talking about you all the time and you’d be miserable. And begging for a monogamous relationships. ”

Laughing even harder….as I have to completely agree. I’d be a dismal polygamist.

It’s good to laugh with your spouse. And I’m grateful to live in a monogamous culture. And to have a mate who keeps me always on my toes…and laughs with me (as often as at me).