There has been a shift, in my opinion, in the rules of marriage.
It appears to me that generationally a view of marriage has completely changed. Marriage was seen by our parents and grandparents as a life goal. One of their greatest desires was to raise a family. Many weathered relationships that were less than desirable for the sake of the children. It really was 'till death do us part.'
An increase in divorce statistics would indicate that something has culturally occurred. While I have nothing empirical to support my theory, just the tenor of counseling points to a general outlook: Marriage has now become a vehicle for personal fulfillment and happiness. If the present relationship does not bring the desired promise of joy, then it is time to switch vehicles. Countless times someone struggling has voiced: Why would I stay if it doesn't make me happy?
While the issues are always complex, and acknowleding that separation is sometimes warranted, it does seem that a perspective that would rather switch than develop character - that heart perspective will be taken into a new relationship.
An interesting sidenote from an ABC News article on the seperation of Schwarzenegger and Shriver is a study done by German researchers:
One German study of 17,000 people found that 72 percent of couples who divorce show no change in life satisfaction. Only 9 percent say their lives are better, according to the study, which is soon to be published in the Journal of Individual Differences.
Just a thought: apparently thinking that the grass would be greener on the other side of the fence, doesn't always prove to be the case.
Three decades of ministry have brought appreciation of what Paul requoted: No one seeks after God. (Rom 3:11). Primarilly, people seek happiness, not holiness. Only when we seek God and His righteousness, will we ultimately find what we have sought all along.