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The Irish people's century-old agreement

 　　The Irish, with their remarkable wisdom, have created a marriage system that balances tradition and freedom. When a couple marries, they can negotiate the duration of their marriage, ranging from one year to 100 years. Upon expiration of the term, if they wish to continue their marriage, they can apply for an extension; otherwise, the marriage is automatically dissolved. The cost of marriage registration also varies depending on the length of the marriage. A one-year marriage costs £2,000, equivalent to approximately 26,000 RMB. However, a 100-year marriage costs only 50 pence (£0.50), meaning the longer the marriage, the lower the cost.

　　In Ireland, another intriguing aspect is that the marriage certificate differs depending on the duration of the marriage. Couples with a one-year marriage receive two thick, encyclopedic marriage certificates. These certificates meticulously list the rights, obligations, and responsibilities of both parties, covering everything from cleaning and repairs to childbirth and education—a comprehensive guide to family life. For couples celebrating their 100th wedding anniversary, the marriage certificate is merely a slip of paper with the Chief Judge's blessing: "Dear Sir and Madam, do you know what responsibilities and obligations your left hand should bear towards your right hand, your right leg towards your left leg, your left eye towards your right eye, and your right brain towards your left brain? In truth, they are an integral whole, existing solely because of each other, and finding joy in each other's happiness." Below this is printed a line in capital letters: "May you grow old together."

　　There's an Irish folktale: if two lovers separate, a star in the sky will go out. This beautiful legend has endured to this day.

　　For the Irish, choosing someone means a lifelong commitment—to stay together for life, without regret; to support each other through thick and thin, until old age. This is the century-long promise that has always existed in Ireland.

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