A few years ago, back in 2013, I was traveling in China and joined a tour group for a few days to go see the high elevation mountains in Yunnan. There was an interesting couple on the group who told their story of their arraigned marriage. Up to that point I thought the whole idea was bad and antiquated. They talked about how they enjoyed both approaching the idea of marriage as a journey and learning experience, something that I feel has been lost for many western couples.

I thought there was something beautiful about how two people, who barely know each other, but have been selected by their parents and match maker both agree to make the best of it together. They explained that of course they have differences, but by both putting in effort have made a happy relationship. They seemed very sweet together and had a nice positive energy.