Are long relationships and engagements the norm these days? Am I the only one that is impatient around here? Then again I'm SINGLE, so maybe I don't count. However, I will state my opinion on the subject. I have been having this conversation with a couple people over the last few months. A few weeks ago (maybe a month) we all watched as Chrissy (Love & Hip Hop) proposed to Jim Jones after 7 years of dating. Then tonight when Tami (Basketball Wives) told Evelyn that she was the real "Non-Mother F'N Factor" because she was never a wife and had to wait 10 years to even prepare to walk down the aisle (MmmHmm). That scares the hell out of me. Is this what we have to look forward to? Now no one wants to rush into marriage, but damn how long is too long? 5, 10, or even 15 years of being "together", living together, and all that jazz often times without an engagement ring to show for it. THIS CAN'T BE LIFE *in my Jay-Z voice*
Now if you met your significant other in school (High School/College) you don't have to factor in those years. How many people are actually ready to get married directly out of the High School or their junior year of college? In my opinion not many would be ready to take the "Big Step".
One of my male friends has a new 18 month rule. He stated that he would know after 6 months of dating a female if she is "the one". After courting comes the engagement then marriage. He calculates that this will take approximately 18 months but that is the limit (No exceptions). Some say men know immediately, shoot even men claim they know immediately. So if there is any truth to that statement, why does it take so long for proposals? It seems as if men get comfortable. Now I don't believe in being forced or given ultimatums, but damn something has to give. The relationship should grow over time and flourish. Marriage should be a major event to look forward to and more importantly making "the one" your wife. As Jay would say, "Every Male isn't a Man". It clearly takes a Man to know what he wants and to take the steps toward a lifetime commitment.
Does a woman have to wait so long that she takes matters into her own hands? Flashback to Ms. Chrissy, I mean she proposed to this dude after 7 years, but still deals with the fact that he truly might not be ready for marriage. SMH at that situation. People need to get their priorities together. I mean I go to more baby showers than bridal showers (I ain't lying) but hey it is what it is.... I will clap for all the men who go after what they want and do it the old fashion way *clap for em* For those still waiting on that man to propose after 5+ years as Jesse would say, "Keep Hope Alive"!!!!!