Out of the mouth of babes...

Last week, I had the opportunity to pick up my nephew from DE on my way to NJ prior to leaving for the Davis family reunion in Detroit. During the ride, my nephew and I talked about a variety of things, nothing to deep... he's 9. But, despite standing at 5'1-5'2, which at times causes people to think he's older than he is, he said something that reminded me that he is still a little boy. We were having a conversation about him wanting siblings, and the fact that he was over having a little brother or sister because he doesn't want to share. The statement made me giggle, before saying that you'll have to share eventually, especially if you get married. His immediate response was, "then I won't get married, I don't want to share". This just made me laugh harder!

Nephew will out grow this, but his statement made me think about the mentality that I've heard/read on various media outlets and social networks sites about marriage being pointless, not necessary in society anymore, or the worst one, marriage only benefits women.As Justin and I prepare for our one-year anniversary, it makes me sad the number of people who are throwing away a fundamental element of families. Family stability makes a difference, I'm sure each of us can reflect back on our family system and see how it can influenced our values, beliefs, etc. simply because of the positive and negative elements that we've witnessed growing up. But, in reality, our selfish nature plays a role in how we respond to marriage. My nephew is a 9-year-old only child, he's used to being spoiled and not having to share, but again, he'll grow out of it, he'll watch his father's marriage and learn that compassion, service, love and sharing are all fundamental parts of not only marriage but many of our relationships and he will desire that for himself. And that's a lesson that all people who desire marriage either recognize prior to saying "I Do" or learn after spending money for a counselor to challenge them to be better at being a spouse.

So, if you want to get married and aren't in a relationship, love this time. Figure out your hot spots, your non-negotiables, and the things you just can't live without. Marriage is work, but just like working to get healthy has great rewards, so does working towards a healthy marriage.