[Scandia]

33girl- well, the pressure is not as direct anymore. Possibly because I am not really in a certain cultural area of the nation, or possibly because the church I attend now is more enlightened. But in certain places, it was almost like serving others was the penalty singles paid for being unattached. I am glad your mother disagreed with your cousin's wife- how rude and entitled of her to think that singles have nothing to do other than serve people.

AChiOhSnap- well, I did not think that being unmarried at 29 was that super rare. But I have found activities and endeavors that fulfill me quite well. Too bad they are selfish ones like traveling to historical places and getting an advanced degree. I did resent being told to serve even as a teen and college student- so it may be my personality. Conversely, a happily married friend of mine volunteers at a soup kitchen and says she receives more from it than what she gives. I have told her how much I admire her for that.

Kevin- well, my adolescence may be nearly over, but I look much younger than my age. A person that makes me happy will fulfill certain requirements- but it is not like I want a professional athlete or someone with a sports car or a GQ model.