In the anticipation of Tyler Perry’s new movie, Why Did I Get Married Too, I thought that a blog post would be suitable. One can’t help but to analyze this same question, but in a newer context.

Let’s put it this way:

·         If the divorce rate is currently at 50% due to married couples’ irreconcilable differences due to finances, sex, children, infidelity, and overall responsibility,

·         If single women and men are learning to live a full and happy life—independent of one another

·         And for those who choose to cohabitate, there are  businesses (and overall society, for that matter) learning to accept and even recognize domestic partnerships (in terms of two non-married persons being lifelong partners),

As my boyfriend and I are close in line to reaching the altar ourselves, this question is in the back of my mind as well. Sure, I love him and plan to spend a life with him…but is marriage even necessary anymore? 

After some contemplation--here’s my opinion.  I don’t think that marriage should ever be necessary, but instead a bonus—a plus factor, in so many words. Getting married is no different than pledging allegiance to a sorority/fraternity, being sworn in to office, or even being baptized. At the end of the day, you are committing your best self through thick and thin for something you’ve perceived to have a greater meaning and superior benefits than doing the alternative. So there should be no more of a hesitation for getting (and staying married) than being under oath, right? If that is the case, why are we making it so much more complicated than this? Why have we turned this simple and affirming institution in to something that makes people beg to ask, Why Did I ever Get Married?

Many people get married for the companionship, stability, the want for a family, and many other reasons. Regardless of your list of reasons to get married, just make sure that each of those reasons are based in love and not fear. Also, follow this link to read more about legal benefits of being married. You may find that there were some things you weren’t aware of…but need to know.

Your thoughts?