Story of an Hour

          It's a tragedy to sacrifice your mind, body and soul to another person in the name of holy matrimony. Specifically if you lost your identity in the process. According to"The Story of An Hour" written by Kate Chopin, the main character Mrs. Mallard did just that. After receiving notification of your husband's death, most women would instantly become overwhelmed with a feeling of vacuity. But, Mrs. Mallard experienced a sense of relief. "Free! Body and soul free!" she kept whispering." She finally felt as though she could find who she was again. But, in addition to possessing coronary sickness, she suffered from stress. Stress of the mind, body and soul. Although Chopin didn't quite disclose she was under stress, as a woman I could relate to the character's feelings. 

          I've witnessed an unhappily married woman for many years. It saddened me to see her lose talents, her hobbies, her dignity and most importantly her voice all because she made a vow before God that she would remain her husband's wife. I find it very interesting that many women would go as far as marrying a man yet divorcing themselves. Even worse, they'll become a widow first before recapturing who they are again.

          Ex-professional football player Ray Rice made headlines after he physically abused his then "fiancee" in a public place. His consequence was termination from the National Football League indefinitely. Now his "wife" is distraught that the world knows her secret... That she still stayed.  I believe this wasn't the first time Rice has done this. Despite the verbal, physical and emotional abuse she received, she made a choice to become his life partner. In the midst of it all, she lost her morals. Morals are what make you who you are. When you're not true to yourself, you're hurting yourself. You're not following your heart. Hopefully Mrs. Rice sees that before it's too late...

As for Ms. Mallard and the unhappily married woman, they both died from a broken heart.