When you make the sacrifice in marriage, you're sacrificing not to each other but to unity in a relationship.

Joseph Campbell's quote, "When you make the sacrifice in marriage, you're sacrificing not to each other but to unity in a relationship," delves into the deeper meaning of sacrifice within the context of marriage. Campbell suggests that the sacrifices made in a marriage are not about personal loss or giving something up for the sake of an individual partner, but rather about the greater good of unity in the relationship. The goal is to foster a sense of connection and mutual understanding, where both partners work together to create something greater than their individual desires or needs.

The emphasis on unity in this quote speaks to the idea that marriage is a partnership, requiring both individuals to compromise, adapt, and contribute to a shared life. Sacrifice, in this sense, is not seen as a negative or burdensome act but as a positive contribution to building a harmonious and strong relationship. Campbell highlights the importance of collective goals and the idea that the true reward of marriage comes from the synergy created when two people come together with mutual respect and a shared sense of purpose.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Campbell’s broader philosophy on relationships and the human experience, which often centered around the hero's journey and the search for wholeness. Campbell believed that the myths and stories of various cultures reflect universal truths about human existence, including the dynamics of relationships. His perspective on marriage reflects this broader understanding, where the focus is on the spiritual and collective aspects of life rather than just the individual.

Ultimately, Campbell’s statement encourages a more holistic view of marriage, where the act of sacrifice is seen as a way to strengthen the bond between partners and create a deeper connection. It reframes the notion of sacrifice from being about personal loss to being about fostering a harmonious and unified relationship that transcends individual needs.