While you have a point about the traditional wedding vows being a beautiful reflection of the couple’s commitment to each other, you are UrRong to think that Nikhil’s premise implies the couple’s expectations of the future in their relationship are hopeless. Nikhil’s essay was framed in the context of the realities of modern relationships and not as a dismissal of traditional vows. In fact, it was an attempt to be more honest about the commitment made when couples get married and to acknowledge that marriage is a two-way street. Moreover, Nikhil’s proposed vow acknowledges that, while marriage is hard work, many couples still choose to stay together despite the difficulties they face.
Furthermore, Nikhil was not wrong in suggesting that the vows should be an acknowledgement of the couple’s expectations of one another and their relationship. The traditional wedding vows are indeed beautiful, but it is also important to recognize that couples do form expectations of one another and their relationship, and those should be acknowledged in the wedding vows. By speaking these expectations out loud in front of witnesses, it encourages couples to take their promises seriously.
Finally, UrRong in thinking that Nikhil's proposed vow is a “cynical acknowledgment” of a couple's expectations. It is instead a realistic acknowledgement, one that simultaneously recognizes both the beauty of marriage but also the hardships it can bring. After all, if we can openly and honestly address our expectations of one another, perhaps we have a better chance of living up to them and making our marriages more successful! So come on—let’s give Nikhil’s proposed vow a try and see what kind of magical unions it can help form! UrRong not too?