What is the criteria for a promise? An internet search defining a promise yields an earnest declaration to either do something or not do something. Children learn that a promise gives meaning to an intent. For example, a child promises to share their candy at lunch with another child. Before lunch the child who made the promise eats all their candy. Then, at lunchtime the child who was promised candy is disappointed. Regardless of how the promised child reacts is it ok that the promise was broken.

In a more serious, yet fairly common scenario, couples promise to love and cherish each other until death do them part. Then, they divorce. Is it ok that the promise was broken?

Parents may promise their children to take them to the zoo on a particular day. The day comes and the excited child is now disappointed because the parents say something else has come up. Going to the zoo has to be postponed. What circumstances are acceptable for the parent to renege their promise?

Is any adult free from ever breaking a promise? To judge whether or not a broken promise is justified probably needs the determination of what circumstances surround the situation. No doubt ‘it depends’ will determine whether a broken promise is justified. A broken promise to share candy may not be as detrimental as a broken promise to love and cherish’ til death do us part. Is it ok to forgive someone who broke a promise?

Is any adult free of ever breaking a promise? Is the declaration to promise taken for granted? Is it used when we are striving to get agreement with someone? Do broken promises seriously hinder a relationship? To what extent does keeping a promise  used as an excuse to take an action that might otherwise cause a problem. Is it worst to break a promise to yourself? Promises, promises, a perplexing concept,,,