This archive report was first published on 16 August 2019.
For far too long, society has conditioned us to believe that marriage is a necessary milestone in life. We're often told that if we don't get married before a certain age, we'll lead a miserable life in our old age. But is this really true?
Listen, you only live once, and life is yours to live. You don't have to get married to be happy or complete. In fact, there are many happily married couples and happy bachelors and spinsters who prove that marriage is not the only path to happiness.
Marriage is a choice, and it's okay to decide against it if you're not ready to commit. You might think that not getting married is selfish because you need to get kids, but even having kids is not for everyone. And even if you want kids, they don't have to be biological. You can adopt, start a children's home, help raise your nieces and nephew, or mentor a child.
Getting married is a choice you only get to make once. So, you better make it wisely. If it's your thing and you really want it, go for it. But if you're not ready to commit, don't let friends, relatives, and neighbors pressure you into it. Who even told them that you want to get married in the first place? Maybe all you want is to get a camera or a pet and travel the world – which is totally okay.
Marriage is a lifetime commitment, and it's not something to be taken lightly. You get married today because you want to earn the respect that comes with marriage, but once it gets rocky, you'll be on your own. The very people who pushed you to get a partner will be the first to question your inability to handle marriage.
So, the next time someone pressures you to get married, remember that it's okay to say no. Your aunts will talk, some will even question your sexuality, but you are the only person who knows what you want. Don't bow down to pressure if you're not ready to commit. Your happiness is worth it.
