Consider this: a huge portion of our teens, 20s, and sometimes 30s are focused on finding "the one." We spend huge amounts of money in accomplishing this task. We eat meals out, watch movies, buy flowers, buy jewelry, cards, and chocolates all in an effort to ascertain if "the one right now" is "the one." If the answer is yes, then we proceed to spend more money becoming engaged, throwing engagement parties, bachelor/ette parties, rehearsals, rehearsal dinners, and weddings.
Given my present situation, I really question our motives and worthiness of such activities. Do we get married because it is what is socially expected of us, or do we do so because of love? If it is the latter, then how do we reconcile love with our current divorce statistics? It is estimated that 40-50% of first marriages, 60-67% of second marriages, and nearly 75% of third marriages end in divorce. Additionally, both men and women who marry between the ages of 20 & 24 are the most likely to divorce at 38.8% and 36.6%, respectively. Ironically, it was in this age range that I was married--I seem to be living proof of these statistics.
Relational deterioration is yet another example of how relationships are big money. Separation agreements, lawyers, divorce papers, spousal and child support, and court costs all contribute to the cost of a relationship. We also spend money of marriage and family counseling, dividing property, etc.
Now, I am not saying that I will never enter into another relationship, or that I will never remarry. I just question why we, as a society, feel the need to acquire this title...is it really worth it? It occurs to me that marriage was once believed to be the only way to be able to live (financially, that is), but now the same institution poses immense financial liability.
I suppose marriage is the ultimate example of going "all in." You stand to gain the most, or lose everything.
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