Relationship Wisdom from the Wild: Love Lessons from the Warthog
| Warthogs may not be the first creatures that come to mind when thinking about love and marriage, but these scrappy, resilient animals have a lot to teach us. Their unique behaviors—rooted in survival, adaptability, and even playfulness—offer surprising insights for long-term relationships. They happen to be one of our personal favorites, so to start the “Relationship Wisdom from the Wild” Series, it HAD to be the odd, impressive, personality-filled warthog!  So, what can warthogs teach us about love? Let’s have a wallow and find out! 1. Tenacity: Stay Committed, Even When the Road Gets Rough Warthogs are nothing if not persistent. They navigate tough terrain, evade predators, and keep going despite challenges. Similarly, strong relationships require tenacity. Love isn’t always smooth—there will be seasons of difficulty, misunderstandings, and moments when running away (metaphorically or literally!) seems easier. But like the warthog, couples who stick together through thick and thin build a love that lasts. Brave Marriage Love Lesson: Keep showing up for each other, even when it’s hard. Resilience strengthens your bond.  2. Drink Your Fill When You Can: Savor the Good Moments In the wild, water sources aren’t always guaranteed. When warthogs find one, they drink deeply, knowing it may be a while before the next opportunity. The same goes for relationships—good times and deep connection aren’t always constant. Life gets busy, stress happens, and seasons change. But when love feels abundant—when there’s laughter, peace, or intimacy—soak it in. Be fully present. Always! Brave Thinking Love Lesson: Appreciate and savor the good moments together. They sustain you through the dry spells.  3. If Your Legs Are Too Tall, Kneel: Adapt to Each Other’s Needs Warthogs have long legs, but they’ve figured out that if they want to graze, or drink, effectively, they need to kneel. Instead of resisting, they adjust to the situation. In relationships, flexibility and humility are key. Sometimes, love requires us to kneel—to let go of our pride, to adapt to a partner’s needs, or to meet them where they are. It’s not about losing yourself; it’s about being willing to grow together. Brave Marriage Love Lesson: Be adaptable. True partnership means bending when needed, not standing rigidly apart.  4. Always Take Time for Self-Care (or a Mud Bath!) Warthogs love a good mud bath—it keeps them cool, protects their skin, and helps them recharge. They don’t just survive; they know the importance of taking care of themselves. Likewise, relationships thrive when both partners prioritize self-care. You can’t pour into your marriage if your own well is dry. Taking time for rest, personal growth, and individual passions makes you a better partner. Brave Marriage Love Lesson: A thriving relationship starts with two healthy, fulfilled individuals. Take care of yourself and help your partner to do the same.  5. Be Brave, But Not Stupid: Choose Your Battles Wisely Warthogs are brave—they’ll stand their ground against predators when necessary. But they also know when to make a quick escape. They don’t waste energy on fights they can’t win. In relationships, wisdom is knowing which battles are worth fighting and which ones are just ego talking. Some disagreements matter. Others? Not so much. The key is discernment—protect what truly matters and let go of what doesn’t. Brave Thinking Love Lesson: Don’t waste energy on petty fights. Save your strength for the battles that truly impact your love and future together.  In Conclusion: Warthog Wisdom for Lasting Love Love, like life in the wild, requires resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace the messy, muddy, and magnificent journey.  So, take a lesson from the warthog: ·Be tenacious in your commitment. ·Savor the good moments. ·Adapt when needed. ·Prioritize self-care. ·Choose your battles wisely. And above all, keep loving fearlessly—mud baths optional.  © The Brave Marriage, 2025; CC BY-NC  |
