So, this weekend, I heard for the umpteenth time, Deneen, I think that you are in love with the idea of being in love.
What does that mean? And why is it that only people who are married say it?
I admit that one day I want to get married and have some kids. But for now, right now, I am enjoying single life. I like that I can fly off for a few days and not have to answer to anyone. I like that I have the freedom to go out and stay out all night and not get into trouble for doing it. I like that I can decide, at the last minute, to hop in my car and head to the shore for an evening and not have to find a babysitter.
Love and relationships for those over 30 are different. The people that I hang out with who are single are not in a rush to fall in love and get married. We are looking for companionship, but we don’t want to rush into a lifelong commitment. We understand that the world today is different than it was when our parents got married. Over 50% of marriages today end in divorce. There is generally not the stigma for people over 30 who are single. Unless you are from a small town or are active in the church. Then they openly wonder what is wrong with you.
So, yes, there are a couple of guys that I am interested in at the moment. I am a woman. And human. But that doesn’t mean that I am in love with the idea of being in love. It just means that I am made of flesh and blood. It would be nice to have someone to go to dinner with once in a while; or someone to travel with.
So, please spare me the condescending remarks about being in love with being in love. Just because I am single does not mean that I want what you have.
Deneen White 