Showing posts with label Marriage. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Marriage. Show all posts

Sunday, October 2, 2016

Why I'm Not Currently Married Or Even Dating

I'm sitting back, fresh off of my 20 year class reunion. It was a very good time but given where you come from (and for me, these choice questions tend to arise at times).

Why aren't you married?
Why don't you have any kids?
You're too good of a guy to not have someone?
Where's your woman?

Sometimes I can tolerate this, except when folks become relentless. Then I have to check them and inform them of my quick reasoning. After that, I believe their curiosity turns into disrespect for what I want and my core values.

I read my friend and relationship/life coach's Troy Spry's book earlier this year "Teach Me How To Love 2". One of the biggest takeaways I got was that people aren't in touch with their core values and thus will settle quickly. I don't want that to be me, even I'm still single at my 30th high school reunion.

OK for all those that like to pry into my personal life (which is personal for a reason) at gatherings, seeing me out, social media, etc, here's something for you to read: some reasons why I am not married nor attached right now.

1. I simply haven't found the woman I can see spending the rest of my life with. I do hang out and go on dates and such, but at my age, I know what I want and will not settle. It's not being picky, it's knowing what I want and will tolerate.

2. Relationships nor marriages, especially marriages, are NOT to be rushed into. The divorce rate is high for good reason. Regardless of your age, one should take their time and chill when it comes to romantic affairs. It will happen if and when it's supposed to.

3. I would like for my own mother to see me married and have children. However, since I am a male, I am afforded the luxury of not having a biological clock. This means I can reproduce well on into my elderly years if I choose.  Look at Abraham from the Bible, Jerry Seinfeld, David Letterman, the list goes on. I'm a late bloomer at a lot of traditional things. It's not when but how well you do something.

4. I say this often, everyone is not meant to be married or even attached. I do respect the sanctity of marriages, love and relationships. However you must remember, everything is not for everyone and this includes love. Let us not forget Paul in the Bible.

5. I really, truly enjoy being single. I wrote a piece on it last year, and even participated in a non marital challenge on Facebook last month. One must love, enjoy and value themselves before they can give their heart to another person. Relationships are great with the right person, but single life has a lot of upsides as well. Therefore to those that wish they were single, please stop trying to drag me down.

6. Marriage and children are way more expensive than years ago. The wedding, home, taxes, cost of just one child from six weeks old to 18 years old (that's not including post secondary education.).  Even with a nice two income couple, all of this does cost. People can say you shouldn't worry about all of that and in a way I do agree. However, it's all about timing and I don't need too many bills rushing on me like an avalanche.

7. Lastly, why is it because I am a certain race, look a certain way, have a certain education, etc, etc mean I have to be with someone? Did someone rewrite the rules of society without telling me? Ok how about allowing me to be happy and great, okay? We are in a society where we are too judgmental and are trying to force feed beliefs on this culture and that culture. Let's think for ourselves and live the best lives we can live.

Ok here it is. Now are there any further questions? I really want to put this subject to bed or I will become even more selective about which folks I entertain.

Sunday, October 25, 2015

It's A Different World: The Transition Is Real

I have undergone a lot of personal changes throughout my life, over the past couple of years especially.  A few months ago, I changed companies and jobs after 12 years with the same place.

The toughest part was adjusting to a different schedule. I had been on a Monday-Friday schedule for the longest. I started out on a weekend shift, working Fridays-Mondays, 10 hour shifts. Since Labor Day, I have been working Sundays-Wednesdays, all 10 hour shifts. I took today (this Sunday off) and realized I hadn't had a regular Sunday off since Father's Day. I feel I have adjusted well as my company heads into its busiest time of the year.

Many have experienced this and other life transitions (marriage, first child, new house, beginning school). Here are some of the ways I have an am still adjusting to this latest life change.

1. Being open and flexible

That has to be the case when your routine is changed. It is a transition in many ways and you have to stay open to the new changes.

2. Manage your time and stress well.

This may be the most important. My time has been adjusted as well, along with days, workouts, meals, and the like. Allowing myself to find a good routine and be organized has taken me to other levels.

3. Don't forget your support group.

This is your close circle of family, friends, mentors and former classmates and coworkers. Stay in touch from time to time as you grow and learn.

4. Keep your main purpose in front.

Remember why you made this change. I wrote before about transitions and second acts. This obviously has to be leading to something big, which will keep you motivated and encouraged.

It takes most a while to adjust to any new setting, but it does and can get better. Tomorrow is a new day so keep pushing.

Have you have a major life transition lately? Do you feel you have adjusted well?

Monday, February 9, 2015

Embracing Being Single

Valentine's Day is the one holiday that tries and make single folks feel bad about being single. It is the day that ultimately spawned cuffing season (explained in another blog.).

However, if you're single, things aren't all bad. Many people are unspoken for by choice. Some do not need to be committed to anyone period. Either way, the day is supposed to be about loving each other, not just our significant other.

Another point here is that one must be able to fully love themselves before they can expect another person to accept their love. This can take a lot of work and there should be no timetable on this.

Also, society in general tries to force people together. This goes from the churches, the workplace and even the economy. In their eyes, getting married and having a family keeps the country populated and keeps commerce flowing. Families do spend more money than single folks statistically.

Despite all of this, enjoy the single life and don't let any factors sway you from it.  Work on yourself, learn to love, spend more time with close friends and family and soak in the benefits. Oftentimes the best person to be around is yourself.

Now if you do not truly want to be single, that's a different story. Either way, live in the moment and take every change and scenario as they come along.

When Valentine's Day comes, give of yourself. Participate in social and church activities, chaperone a children's party or dance, and simply make extra time for yourself as you would your partner.

I'm not saying to give up on love, or even marry yourself. Simply enjoy your current state of life. Today is a gift, the present.

Remember biblical scholars, everyone is not meant to have someone. Paul never married for instance.

What are your feelings towards single folks? Do you believe there is someone for everyone?

Friday, November 14, 2014

Why I Would Make A Good Husband

I've been told many times by different people that I'm perfect marriage material and would make a great husband. Now I'm very humbled and flattered to know this. I would also like to know why this is the case. It may also explain some reasons why I have been single for so long.

Therefore are some reasons I conjured up as I made a case for myself as to why I would make a good husband.

1. I know how to treat others well, especially a woman

I speak and write often about how I was raised by two women who taught me manners and to treat others well and like human beings. I feel being good to others only yields positive reinforcement and I love positive, residual action.

2. I am healthy and in shape.

This extends more than my physique and even how much I work out or how well I eat. I also want my health and vitals to be in order and to beat generational diseases and curses. Therefore, I stay healthy in mind, body and spirit.

3. I am extremely hard working

I have been working since age 16, have held several jobs, and have been with the same company for 11 years. Additionally, I do other legal things for additional income which allows me to live a comfortable lifestyle, keep my bills paid and have a good credit score. Money isn't everything but it is important. I try to make my relentless work ethic an equalizer.

4. I am well educated and intelligent.

Education is very important to me. I always want to learn something new everyday. I stay well read and keep my mind sharp. I like to be interesting and interested in what's going on.

5. Good sense of humor

I absolutely love comedy, from watching stand up and improv comedy, to sitcoms on TV and joking and kidding around. I like to live life to the fullest and be happy and have others around me feel the same. If you aren't laughing, you aren't living.

6. Attractive

I am not being conceited here, but confident. I feel I am an attractive man, inside and out. I don't make it a point to flaunt it either. I am very down home about it all, and I want my inner beauty to shine more. The exterior fades but the interior can last forever.

7. Female friends, etc

This may seem like a negative but keep reading before you judge. I have a good network of ladies (my mom, aunts, cousins, friends) with whom I trust and confide in regarding female issues. I know I can go to them with most problems. I like to stay in touch with what the opposite sex needs and wants.

8. I don't take any crap and I am a tough person.

I realize I don't fit the profile. But trust and believe I am not one to be crossed. I know how to defend myself properly as well as my lady. I feel I am a man's man with an old soul. I am mentally and physically tough and often use my biggest muscle: my brain when faced with controversy and adversity.

9. I never want to stop dating

Too often when the vows are said, the dating stops. I don't ever want that to be the case with the person I'm with. I want us to always be boyfriend and girlfriend. The couples and marriages I have seen endure the longest practice this behavior.

10. I am very spiritual

This is more important than being religious to me. I definitely subscribe to a higher power, God and Jesus, and try to live in line with the Bible's teachings. I feel God is love and I want to continually practice God's love and grace towards others.

Well ladies here it is. If you have any further questions or additions, comment or hit me up personally.

Sunday, April 6, 2014

The Life Cycle Of Dating For The Average Male

We men are not that complicated, really. It just appears women want to make us that way. However, our levels of maturity and cycles of dating are something out of the ordinary. 

Here is a sample, not an exact model, of a typical dating cycle for a man from boyhood until way deep into life.

1. Chasing Around During Recess

This is how women first get into bad boys. They often fail to get past the perception "if he hits you, he likes you." This is usually only true in elementary school,  when he chases you around,  throws rocks at you, and may throw you in the mud. He may occasionally write one of those corny "do you like me" notes.  At this age, those, he is literally about the chase.

2. The butt and boob grab.

This is around middle school and early high school. Puberty has ascended upon the males and hormones are out of control,  especially with how the girl's bodies have matured.  In short, this is the pervert portion of a young male's life. Oftentimes the guys will show their affection by grabbing a girl's booty and running.  The more brave will grab a breast.  These are the times when a young man has usually received his first kiss, once he learns to control his hands. 

3. Puppy Love.

You are full on into high school.  You have many crushes, but may only one to date one girl. You want to take her to the school dance, prom, or even want her to be your first. This can turn into puppy love,  as you believe this is your future wife. Sometimes this ends up that way, but most of the times the guy still wants to play the field.

4. Young Adulthood.

The guy either is married right now, or is engaged in a variety of activities. These could include college,  the military,  or their first full time job. They're trying to earn enough money and/or education to make themselves more desirable to a woman, even if they aren't settling just yet.

5. Going through certain female types.

You may be going through your "opposite race" phase, big girl, prep, cheerleader,  or even cougar phase. An older,  attractive woman has their eye on you,  and you feel like Dustin Hoffman in The Graduate: flattered and drawn into her. You could end up with any of these ladies,  but you at least want to try out these ladies first.

6. Settling Down

OK now you're ready to settle. You have it together financially,  you have a steady woman, maybe a child or two together.  You realize it's time to become a family man and get married.

7. Divorcee' or widower

It can  be tough to get back in the saddle when your perfect marriage has fallen apart. You almost have to learn the dating game again,  depending upon how long you have been out of it. It can be very challenging. 

8. The Old Man In The Club.

This is something most do not care to be. They are few,  but around.  These men are like sugar daddies,  going after much younger women, trying to manipulate them, and even using old school lines on them.

9. Old, Retired, and Just Tired

At a certain point,  even the most vibrant man cools down.  Viagra and Cialis have increased sexual activity amongst the senior citizen community. However many would rather settle in and watch Matlock with their wives and go to bed at 8pm than go out hunting for more or new action. 

Men's sexual peak does end early, and that's probably why so many of us like to date a lot while young. Either way, if he's the settling type, he will eventually settle.  Just allow him to do it on his terms and bear in mind he may have more living left to do.

Monday, March 31, 2014

Men: Commit! Or Quit and Keep It Moving!

OK fellas to avoid being anti-female and keep my blog balanced, I have a simple message for you all, especially the grown up men over 30. Please stop playing around with these women that are looking for something deeper than sex or a simple relationship.  If a long term commitment isn't your thing,  let it go and move on.

Do it for the good of mankind.

Women aren't even comparing us to dogs anymore because dogs are too loyal.  Rather we are more like cats: sneaky, not wanting much affection, having a different agenda, and chasing after rats.  Admittedly it's a harsh comparison but a very true one. It appears that the many ones out there plotting and playing games makes it tougher for us good men to convince a woman that we are right for them.

Fellow men, the last thing we need is another challenge. Finding true love and connecting with that woman is difficult enough.  The waters are further muddied with nasty, trifling guys basically misrepresenting the male race.

Some of you never will be that type of man andd that's not all bad. You are who you are and no one should force you to change.  All I'm asking is to be honest with yourself and these women who want more. Find someone that's into the games and lack of committment.  Trust me, these women are out there and they love to sneak around also. However, when a female does it, the double standard is applied and they are called whores. 

Men, wouldn't you be much happier with a woman who's not looking for anything significant?  It will take the pressure off of you, especially when it comes to commitment and philandering. Please don't ruin the good women out there, just as you have smeared the image of the average male. It's time for this madness to end.

Sunday, March 23, 2014

Women, don't be bitter, be BETTER!

It seems women have a lot of hard feelings when they choose the wrong mate, or when their "perfect" mate wrongs them. It appears they are acting out a scene from "Waiting To Exhale" , then they often punish the next guy that shows interest.

Women, please listen to me for a few minutes.  Not all men are perfect,  but not all men are bad. Often when things go south,  it's not always the man or men in general.  You have to keep things in perspective and know when and where you have went wrong also. It's not an easy thing,  but after a while, you must look at your own choices. 

The simple definition of insanity is "doing the same thing over and over, expecting a different result. " When you date the same quality or pedigree of man, you can only expect equal treatment.  You must look elsewhere.  Try a different type of man: one that is more gentle, from a different background than yourself,  an humble man, or even one of a different race. Either way, spice things up.

Also, keep your heart open and love yourself fully. How can you expect to give your love to someone else if you aren't sure of yourself and at peace?

Next,  please stop trying to make a man into a project. You are not Jesus, so don't try to work miracles. Changing a grown - up man takes too much work, work that is often for naught.   Accept a person as they are and add to their life,  rather than take away or rebuild it.

The bottom line is ladies: be BETTER! You have to be what you want to attract.  You may have a great job, a fine education,  and are extremely attractive.  However,  you must also bring an open, compassionate heart and mind to the table and not baggage from your past.  Let that go.

You can win in the game of love my females. However please stop with all the man bashing.  This isn't a reality show or a Tyler Perry movie. Life is real and we should all be real and true with it, and our hearts.

Sunday, February 9, 2014

Loving past February and Valentine's Day

This week of course is one of love, culminating with St. Valentine's Day. During most commercialized holidays, many industries make a lot of money. For this holiday, it's the candy, flower, card restaurant, spa, and hotel corporations and companies that are expected to make a killing.

A killing all in the name of love.

Love is a beautiful thing, and being in love and expressing these emotions are wonderful.  However, why must we ONLY do this once, or even a few times a year? If you love someone or something, some sort of gesture should be made everyday. 

I will start with Christians and loving the Lord. Most who know me know how I cannot stand how hype church folks get after a certain Sunday service, then I don't see nor hear them make further mention of God or Jesus until the next week. I throw Matthew 6:5-8 at them. That verse can actually be a good theme for this entire blurb, especially my next point. 

This Valentine's, you will see all sorts of flowers, candies and gifts delivered to workplaces and schools nationwide. I have two quips here: why make that type of gesture when you are going to see them that evening?, and why don't you do this regularly? It seems too many reserve this for Valentine's, birthday, anniversary, or another special occasion. 

Next is loving your fellow person. This could be your parents, children, other family members, friends, and such.  We don't show or send our affection often enough. Whenever me and my circle of friends or family get together, we always  express this, as we want to make every moment count.

Therefore, whatever you do on this holiday of love, make it count and don't use the day as an excuse to do something special.  Let us endeavor to do this everyday, even with some simple words. Now that's love. 

Sunday, January 5, 2014

You Are A Mate, Not A Remote Control

Many of the things people usually do in a new year is lose weight, become healthier, make more money and find love. Some become so desperate or caught up in love that their new beau makes them a doormat or puppet, controlling all or part of their lives.

I've seen it happen over and over. Some people love control and domination for various reasons.  They have trust issues. They are in management or leadership positions and are used to taking charge. Or they are possibly delusional and have been watching too many of those clique' Lifetime struggle movies.

Many times, after the love fades,  the person realizes things must change or they need a way out. Sometimes it takes others praying and intervening to give this individual the strength to stand tall and to work a compromise. A relationship is supposed to be a partnership, not a dictatorship. They are NOT your toys, children, or universal remote control.  This is your partner (mate, spouse, lover). Often even the most docile person will eventually put their foot down against unjust treatment. 
This being said, it's good and healthy for two people to encourage and compliment each other. Positive change is usually always good, especially when a person has destructive habits such as verbal abuse, drinking, incompetence, and non-compassion. However, one should get to know their main squeeze well and realize there are some things, and people that you cannot change or control. You knew who this person was when you met them; it's not fair to try and make them who you want them to be. If they don't like shopping all day on a Saturday or sports, then you need to find a friend, or another mate who's into that.  The term equally yoked is used for a reason. When you two become one, it means you embrace your similarities and celebrate and tolerance differences. It is give and take after all.

Basically, control and manipulation isn't the way to go.  It's time to put down the whip and use your words to get what you want from a person.  One should do what they want to do, not what they feel they have to, or out of fear or a guilt trip. 

No relationship of any kind will be perfect. However, having mutual respect for one another and trusting them to be themselves goes a long way. Let's drive people towards us and not away from us. Strangely enough, you will find a more caring, willing mate that doesn't require manipulation or anything an underqualified love guru is feeding you.

How have you been controlled/controlling in the past? What happened to make it all stop?

Sunday, October 20, 2013

Dating and Candy Crush Saga: How They Are Similar

The current popular cell phone game is Candy Crush Saga. People log many hours and data to play this game.  They connect through social media to get more incentives such as lives, tickets, etc.

However, the game itself is often more luck and chance based than skill. It's more about opportunities and spending money on the power-ups. Without these, people will be stuck on levels for weeks and months.

So what does this have to do with love and dating? Well, often dating can also rely on a little luck, circumstance and other such factors. Here are some ways that dating and Candy Crush are similar.

1. Both are addictive.

Most every stage and level of dating: meeting, talking, courting, sex, and just being together is hard to pull away from. We have all been victims of it, especially in the early stages. Candy Crush is no different. People play it from dawn until dusk, and every free minute in between. 

2. Putting out money gives you an edge.

It's sad but true with both.  When one dates, you may only put out small amounts for dinners, movies, candy, and gifts, and larger amounts for jewelry, vacations, and holidays. Candy Crush players know that having those powerups simply make any level easier.  This is why there are so many of them and they sell like hotcakes. 

3. Making the right moves at the right times is key

Of course in Candy Crush (especially the jelly levels), combining the right candies and avoiding some of the quick combinations can help you clear the level quicker.  You only have a certain amount of moves.  In the game of love, it's like chances. A good person will only give another so many times to screw up or say the wrong thing before they're doing like a Candy Crush addict and begging for more chances (lives.)

4. Power in numbers

Whether it be lives, moves, or friends and contacts, both rely heavily on outside assistance.  It can be a village mentality. You help set up your friend on a date, talk them up, just as you would be sending a ticket to a fellow Crusher so they can unlock another episode.

5. You get into ruts and get stuck.

At times, even in committed relationships, you can feel you're stuck in a slump. No dates or very little affection. This can be no different than being stuck on a level for days and weeks. Often you have to walk away and come back to it fresh.

6. Jealously and self-doubt can set in.

You see many people getting married, having children, and living happy love lives. The feeling can equal when you're stuck on level 53 of Candy Crush, and everyone you know is in the high 200s, or even the mid 300s. You want to know why and how they did it, and why are you still stuck on where you're at.

Of course, love and dating are real and Candy Crush Saga is simply a game. One should not make dating into a game. Rather it should be a journey, where you're patient and you focus on yourself and your own progress.

Sunday, September 8, 2013

Rodney and Keia: An eight year journey of love

The institution or idea of marriage is not taken seriously anymore. The divorce rate is climbing daily, weddings are highlighted more than the marital union, and over 50 percent of black women never get married in their lifetime.

Now enter young black couple and soon to be newlyweds Rodney Davidson and Keia Dawkins. They have a wonderful and long love story worthy of talking about.

Rodney and Keia first were acquainted in 2005. Keia was working at Winn Dixie and Rodney happened to stop by her register one day. She initiated things, asking if he had a girlfriend and wanted his phone number.  Rodney played hard to get and a little cool at first, but they ended up exchanging numbers. Three months later, they were a steady couple.  Rodney started bringing Keia around his friends and family. This is always a sign that you're serious about someone, especially since they were only 18 at the time.

Four years later, in 2009, Rodney realized that Keia was the one for him and he eventually wanted to marry her. According to him, when you get that feeling, you simply know without a doubt. 

Their engagement was also nice as well. In October 2011, Rodney was at work on Keia's birthday. She was with friends and family celebrating at Broncos Mexican Restaurant.  Little did she know, Rodney had a special suprise for her: a proposal. He came by the restaurant on his break and popped the question. She of course said yes, and now it was time to plan their wedding and life together.

Rodney said one of the biggest challenges during the engagement was getting his credit score high enough so he could get a house for him and his new bride to be. He and Keia have always been hard workers, both often working two jobs to get what they need and want. They recently closed on their house, and their wedding is right around the corner.

Eight years is as long as many marriages last. These two have stuck it out through the temptations and tough times. Their love and trust prevailed throughout the years. Rodney advises anyone wanting to make a relationship last a long time to put God first, trust Him, and trust your significant other with all your heart.  There shouldn't be any doubts or secrets. It's common but golden advice that many people do not follow.

Now Rodney and Keia are nearly ready to simply enjoy being husband and wife, and live each following step as they have during the course of the relationship.

True, long lasting love is still possible, as proven by this story. It takes love, trust,and hard work.   You must be equally yoked, and be patient in the good and bad times.

I'm confident that when Rodney and Keia become one, their marriage will have a long shelf life. They are not taking this lightly and want to continue to love each other.  Life can be simpler when we're willing to listen to our instincts, follow our hearts and be trusting.  It's risky but can be very rewarding. 

Saturday, February 9, 2013

Indecent and Inappropriate: How And Where NOT To Propose To A Woman

Valentine's Day is coming up this Thursday. I have been writing more about love over the past year. I decided for this Valentines to focus on all the engagements and proposals that occur on this day.

First let me start by saying it's predictable and clique' to get engaged or propose on Valentines. Yes the day is about love. However, proposals are supposed to be memorable, spontaneous, and unique. Nothing unorthodox about proposing on February 14th. I call it the gift and ring ceremony with all the flowers, candies, balloons, bears and rings I see posted on social media on this day.

To me, a marriage proposal shouldn't be a grand gesture, or even on a holiday or birthday. It should be sort of a surprise. The parents of the bride should be asked for their blessing, I believe that's only fair. However public spectacles such as on the Jumbotron at a professional sporting event or where a huge crowd is has been done a million times.

Keep your proposal simple, like during the commercial break of Family Guy. Also, pick another day other than Valentines. Propose marriage in the car or even during dinner at home. Either way, be creative and different. That would mean don't hide the ring inside food or beverages.

Here are two proposals I enjoyed. One was at the beach. This couple had went for a weekend getaway. The man had written "Will You Marry Me?" in the sand, then called his lady to look outside the balcony. Besides the writing in the sand, he was kneeling with the ring.

Another good one was a scavenger hunt. This fella send his wife to be on a well thought out quest and game, till she found the ring in a tree. He popped the question right then.

Now, certain things, including asking for the parents blessing, should not go out of style. Don't spend more than three months of your income on the ring. Getting down on one knee is hard to beat. Make sure marriage has been discussed, and you both are ready. The rest can fall in place.

The point is: be original! Propose on President's Day. Do research and find other ideas for proposing. Also, if you insist on people being present, keep the crowd small. A few close friends and family will do. Finally, do not feel it necessary to post the proposal to YouTube. It is a romantic moment, but a private one. Again, go against the grain.

A good, non-clique' proposal can wow that special someone and lead to a wonderful life together. The thought thus really does count.

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Love and marriage, love and marriage

Many of you know how the theme song to the hit TV show "Married With Children" goes. And there is a lot of truth behind that song. There are too many folks that believe you need money, the perfect wedding, the right house, etc, etc, to be married. They're updating their page daily on www.theknot.com, carefully planning every detail of the BIG day. That all is fine and dandy, but what about love?

It seems songwriter, musical artists, authors, etc will never run out of material to write about as long as love and marriage stays the way it currently is. This is officially the beginning of spring, and often when many weddings occur. I've already attended one wedding this year, and set to attend 4 more, one of which I will be a groomsman. I can say that these weddings include couples who are in love and are getting hitched for the right reasons. That's not always the case, however.

Marriage just isn't valued as it once was decades ago. It seems now soo many couples want to keep up with the Joneses and care more about the wedding than the marriage itself. I'm not saying the wedding shouldn't be a special, joyous occasion. You shouldn't need to go broke or deep in debt for that perfect day and/or honeymoon. Be reasonable and focus on the life that's being built.

There are two well-known statistics regarding marriage. Nearly 50% of them end in divorce. Also, nearly 50% of black women will go through their lifetime without getting married. Those are scary stats, especially if you're a black woman. Such stats have prompted guys to compile lists saying why black women aren't married. One of my friends and classmates (whom is a successful, intelligent, black woman herself) fired back with her own reasons why men aren't married. I have to say there was a lot of merit in both notes.

Now I'm 32, never been married, and I have no kids. And here's why. First of all, I didn't feel I was mentally, financially, or spiritually ready to be a husband in my 20s. I was kind of sheltered as a teen and in my early 20s, not dating very often. I wanted to get those experiences first. Next, I have yet to meet the woman that completes me that feels the same way. I feel I am an attractive man, inside and out. However, I seem to attract women that I cannot foresee a future with. Lastly, I still have some growing to do, especially when it comes to love. I'm still not ready to settle down just yet, but I'm getting closer by the day. That could be as a result of reason #2.

I do know this: when I do say "I do" I want it to be forever. I want a lady that completes me, is perfect for me, is my best friend, accepts me for who I am, and that I'm completely in love with. That day will come I know. Until then, I will wait patiently and watch and learn from the mistakes of others who didn't take marriage (or love) seriously enough.
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