The everyday lives of most married couples can often feel rather mundane. My partner and I have been married for nearly 12 years, and the most significant ongoing issue we face tends to revolve around the classic “I bought a birthday gift for YOUR mom. Again.”
But then there’s Elizabeth and Philip Jennings—KGB agents navigating the treacherous waters of 1980s Washington, D.C., during the Cold War. Their relationship is a whirlwind of tension, danger, and relentless chaos. A simple glance across their kitchen counter can convey high-stakes messages with potentially fatal outcomes; a raised eyebrow might signal the need for a disguise or even a mission that involves a close-range execution.
Some might feel relieved that their partnership isn’t as intense as that of the Jennings. They could label ‘The Americans’ as “feel-good TV,” implying that they’re happy their life isn’t filled with such turmoil. I, however, see it differently.
When my husband and I tune in each week, we catch glimpses of our own lives reflected in the screen. Here’s how our marriage shares similarities with theirs:
We practice forgiveness.
In the realm of espionage—oops, I mean marriage—minor grievances are part of the territory. If Philip can overlook Elizabeth’s recruitment escapades, and if she can let slide his questionable hairpieces, then a few dirty dishes don’t seem like a big deal in comparison.
We strive to reconnect.
There are days when it feels like my husband has transformed into a character named Clark, complete with nerdy glasses and a separate existence, while I might as well be across town in oversized sunglasses and a wig. Yet, we make it a point never to drift too far apart. Eventually, we remember what truly matters—our family, our marriage, and each other (but definitely no wigs).
We instill beliefs and values in our children.
We want our kids to stand for something and fight for it. Our values might lean more toward equality, education access, and health care for all, rather than an arms race, but ultimately, our goal is their happiness.
We support each other.
If he’s about to lose his cool with the kids, I’ll step in to give him a breather. And if I’m in a tight spot, maybe with an FBI agent next door, he’ll cover for me, telling the kids I’m away tending to a sick relative they’ve never heard of.
While I may not agree with everything he does, I’ll always have his back. Would I help him with something drastic? Let’s just say I hope we never get to that point, but if it came down to it, I would. I’d even go so far as to say I’d kill for him.
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In summary, while my marriage might not involve international espionage, the core elements of support, forgiveness, and commitment are very much alive, echoing the tumultuous yet passionate bond shared by Elizabeth and Philip Jennings.