An Engaging Predicament

I was asked by someone, "why did you find it necessary to get married?" While that question is simple the answer is the exact opposite. Why do I find it necessary to get married. Why does anybody find it necessary to get married?

I guess it would be necessary if I was a political refugee awaiting extradition to the United States to be prosecuted for playing a game of chess and my only way to avoid persecution would be to get married to a Icelandic citizen. Strangely, I do not find myself in the predicament despite playing chess against Polish, Russian, Chinese and Mexican nationals. No the need to get married is not a life threatening one.

I admit that I could be just as satisfied by having a common law marriage. In the state of Illinois, I would have to live with my fiancè for seven years before the title of man and wife. Thats a long time to be in limbo.

I guess the reason for the needing to get married is certainty. I could be certain that we have a partnership recognized by the state. If something happens to me or her we could take care of each other without much difficulty. When we have children together they wouldn't have the stigma of being born in wedlock. Our parents would be certain that the significant other isn't just a temporary entity.

There are so many more reasons but we have a great mutual devotion that, in an idealic world, is more appropriate between a husband and wife. We would still love each other just the same regardless of marriage but the symbolism of the bond would be tantamount to a seal of finality. No more room for doubting each other's intentions, just the relief of knowing that your loved.