To echo Will, I am comfortable financially and have high standards in terms of whom I would consider to be “marriage material” from a financial point of view. It’s not that he would need to be wealthy, but I would not be comfortable tying myself to someone with unreasonable amounts of debt, low/non-existent retirement savings, or otherwise financially irresponsible. I’ve seen my dad divorce three times and take a major financial hit each time (hey, half of half of half is still something, lol). I have not decided I never want to get married, but I am comfortable with the idea that I may never find someone who “fits” and that’s ok.

I also do not want kids, so that motivator is not present for me.

I love the romance and commitment aspects of marriage, having a life-long partner to share in everything together, but it is not a requirement for my happiness.

Apothic, to be frank, based on your other posts it does seem like you’re trying to make yourself feel “ok” with the idea of not being married, despite your underlying desires. It really doesn’t matter what Anyone, Will, I, or any others in the TB community feel about marriage. What do YOU want? Sure, it’s nice to hear different perspectives, but don’t settle for a dating relationship if what you want is to be married.