As a child, I was taught by two loving parents what a beautiful marriage looks like. My parents taught me by their example. They made sacrifices for each other, put the other person’s needs first, communicated, and occasionally kissed in front of the kids (which was always followed by a “Gross!” from us kids). My parents' example helped me navigate through my own love story. I was so blessed to meet my (soon-to-be) husband at a young age. And while we have been affirmed so many times by our friends, family, and (most importantly) God, I am amazed by society’s negative outlook on young marriage.
Just a few decades ago, getting married at 19 years old was completely normal. I have decided to share my top three reasons why Miles and I have decided to get married at a young age. I want to begin by saying that while we are both aware of our age, we do not let that guide our choices in life. I believe that we both possess a maturity that exceeds way beyond our “youngster” age.
1. Faith beyond understanding.
When Miles and I began talking about marriage about a year ago, we made praying a priority. We know that God has a plan for us and we want to follow it wholeheartedly. We also began to research what marriage would look like for us as young adults. Before our engagement, we also met with our pastor and did premarital counseling. I am so thankful that Miles and I spent the time to really dive into the hard aspects of marriage and the challenges that it would bring.
After we got engaged, Miles and I were overwhelmed with blessings. We won a honeymoon to Cabo, we have received financial blessings from family and friends, and so many people have encouraged us. However, above all of the wonderful things that happened to us, God poured His peace and grace over our lives. The day that Miles and I got engaged, we felt the peace and grace that comes with God continuing to affirm us about our doubts or worries. We are learning to completely trust in Him.
2. Finances.
The biggest thing that Miles and I have been praying about is finances. The biggest blessing that we have received in this process is that my parents are paying for this year of college, so I have this year to save up and Miles and I can pay off our senior year of college (which is next year, yay!).
I have also been blessed with two jobs and a loving fiancé who also works many hours at his job. We have also done the necessary research and learned that when two people deal with financial stresses at a young age when they are married, it becomes much easier when they are older to budget and spend money wisely. We are up for the challenge! While Miles and I have moments of weakness and worry about finances, we know that we are in good hands.
3. Love.
Miles and I have been together for almost four years now. We have never split up during that time and we always resolve our issues the minute there is one. That being said, we crave to know the loving intimacy of a marriage. The idea that two people become one when they get married is incredible!
Most people our age tell us that we should just live together and it will basically be like we are married. However, that goes against our values and our definition of marriage. Marriage is more than skin deep. Yes, you are becoming one physically, but you are also becoming one emotionally and spiritually. For us, marriage is worth waiting for. Miles and I are ready to take that next step in life and build our beautiful marriage together.
These reasons are only a slice in the cake of reasons why Miles and I are getting married young, but I hope it gives you a better insight into the “youngster's” mind.
