by Yvonne Chase
Married vs. Single
I was reading an article recently that said, “Married life is better than single life.” You’ve heard that before, haven’t you? The article said people in good, supportive marriages:
- Are healthier and have stronger immune systems
- Experience financial stability
- Look younger and are much healthier than those who are single
- Have enjoyable sex lives
- Experience less stress
- Enjoy life more than single or unmarried counterparts
Comparing is Foolish
I don’t know about you, but I know some unhealthy, financially strapped, old looking, and super stressed out people in sexless marriages who are enduring life – not enjoying it. While the jury hasn’t decided if married life is better than single life, here’s what I do know, we always lose when we play the comparison game. The Bible warns us never to compare ourselves with others; “Do your own work well, and then you will have something to be proud of. But don’t compare yourself with others.” Galatians 6:4 (CEV)
Marriage is Not the Answer
Marriage is not the answer to a better life. Acceptance is the answer to a better life; whether single or married. I suppose married life could be better than single life, and I suppose single life could be better than married life. It is what it is, and they are what they are. Each has its pros and cons.
Race to the Altar
Here’s the problem with saying married life is better than single life. Many single people marry thinking their lives will be better than divorce when that is not their reality. There’s a loud conversation going on out there about why you’re not married yet as if there’s a race to the altar and we all need to be married by a certain time.
I’m Married…Now What?
I know a ton of women that want to get married for the sake of being married…to say I’m married…like it’s a goal on their checklist. OK so you’re married…now what? Do you know how to be a wife to your husband? Do you know how you will “help” him in this thing called life? Oh, you didn’t even know you were supposed to help him did you? Yeah, you are. Perhaps if, you were to find that out first maybe you wouldn’t have gotten married yet.
It’s Up to You
Here’s what I want to say in closing; life is what you make it, whether single or married. If your married life is not the best it can be, get to work on it. If your single life sucks, make it better. Whatever you do, don’t compare your life to others. You will come up short every time.
