I have a feeling that your response, just like OP's is an emotional one, based on experiences you've had in life. In my 50 years on earth, I've witnessed all 4 kinds of marriages.
1. Unhappy couple that stayed together and worked out their problems
2. Unhappy couple that stayed together and remained miserable
3. Unhappy couple that split and are happy with their decision
4. Unhappy couple that split and now regret having done that
You cannot deny that there's beauty in 1, and I think when you made your comment number 2 is probably what was going through your mind.
In any case I did connect with OPs comment, and do think that things have value because they last long. People don't optimize for happiness in life, they optimize for other abstract concepts like fulfillment and purpose etc. Marriage and family can give a great sense of purpose and more fulfillment than any fleeting romance (or selfish decision-making). Life is long and full of ups and downs, marriage (just like religion and children) can serve as a great anchor point.
1. Unhappy couple that stayed together and worked out their problems
2. Unhappy couple that stayed together and remained miserable
3. Unhappy couple that split and are happy with their decision
4. Unhappy couple that split and now regret having done that
You cannot deny that there's beauty in 1, and I think when you made your comment number 2 is probably what was going through your mind.
In any case I did connect with OPs comment, and do think that things have value because they last long. People don't optimize for happiness in life, they optimize for other abstract concepts like fulfillment and purpose etc. Marriage and family can give a great sense of purpose and more fulfillment than any fleeting romance (or selfish decision-making). Life is long and full of ups and downs, marriage (just like religion and children) can serve as a great anchor point.