The value of marriage is not that adults produce children but that children produce adults.

In this quote, Peter De Vries offers a unique perspective on the value of marriage. Rather than focusing solely on the idea that marriage exists for the purpose of producing children, De Vries flips the narrative, suggesting that the true value lies in how children shape and transform the adults who raise them. His statement emphasizes the transformative power of parenthood, where the experience of raising children can lead to personal growth, maturity, and a deeper sense of responsibility in adults. Children, in this sense, don’t just benefit from their parents—they also help develop their parents into more responsible and thoughtful individuals.

De Vries' quote suggests that the act of parenting teaches adults important life lessons, such as patience, empathy, and the ability to sacrifice for the well-being of others. It challenges the conventional view that the primary purpose of having children is to carry on family legacies or create future generations. Instead, he argues that the process of raising children offers profound personal development for the adults involved, encouraging them to grow beyond their own self-interests and develop into better, more considerate people.

The origin of the quote is rooted in De Vries' broader writing style, which often includes wry humor and satirical insights into the human condition. As a writer, he was known for his witty and sometimes cynical observations on social norms, particularly in relation to family dynamics and relationships. This quote reflects his characteristic approach of questioning traditional assumptions and offering an alternative, often ironic, viewpoint.

Ultimately, De Vries’ quote encourages a deeper reflection on the meaning of marriage and parenthood, urging us to recognize that the impact of children extends far beyond their mere existence—they shape and influence the very lives of the adults who care for them. By framing children as catalysts for the growth of adults, the quote invites a broader appreciation for the transformative journey of parenting and the personal evolution it fosters.