LCM 2.0

One of the debatable issues among lovers is the time line of engagement. What is ideal? Long or short engagement?

Wifey and I had a long engagement. We courted for 9 years before we finally tie the knot. Well, early marriage is not an option  because I am jobless and still studying.

A question so often asked is how long is too long and how short is too short in courtship. The answer is variable, and there is no right and wrong answer. It really depends on your situation. Just allow me to share with you questions that will lead you to an appropriate answer to your situation.

1. How old are you and your partner?
   • If you’re still young, just enjoy singlehood.
   • If the biological clock is not on your side, there is no reason to delay.
2. How long have you known each other?
   • You’ll not marry someone you slept with but you just met last night, are you?
3. How long have you been in relationship?
   • Time is the best test of a relationship.
4. Are you emotionally and intellectually convinced that s/he is the right person?
   • Marriage is not something that you can walk out anytime. Spare the trouble and be honest.
5. Do you both have a steady source of income?
   • Aside from infidelity, money is another source of marriage wars.
6. Are your combined income enough to (at the very least) rent a studio apartment, pay the bills and feed each other?
   • Do not “live” under the roof or your parents or in-laws
   • Do not ask all your relatives to support your new family
7. Do you have mutual savings?
8. Do you share the same goals? Are your individual dreams n sync?
   • If the shoe does not fit, don’t force it. The pain at this stage is bearable compare to the pain both of you will go thru in the future if you ignore this warning sign.
9. Are both of you willing to give up “single” life?

If you’ll notice, it’s not part of the questionnaire if the girl is pregnant. Because this should not be a reason for getting married.

Marriage life is fun and challenging. The commitment you’ll give to each other is lifetime, long after the goosebumps effect of courtship is gone. But when the goosebumps effect is gone, it does not mean you do not love the person anymore. That’s because love is about commitment and keeping your word.