Religion & Spirituality

The gift of singleness

The gift of singleness

As a 34 year old, I often had problems coming to terms with being single. I have always been single since I was a kid. I had friends who were the opposite sex but they were just friends and never liked me more than a friend. It didn't bother me as I wasn't looking for a girlfriend or a relationship. I remember as a teenager that I had seen a few men in my church who were in their early 30's and late 30's that weren't married. I always found that kinda fascinating as I saw these men as like role models since they weren't married and lived for God.

As I got into high school, I started to notice girls and I came across one that caught my eye. I saw she was the exact person as I was which was shy and timid and she looked like the girl next door type. We quickly became acquaintances and our families spent time getting to know one another. She would be really friendly with me like smiling and waving at me and it made me feel like she liked me more than a friend. I decided to one day after church to ask her out. I did and even I sucked badly at attempting to do that she said yes. She was a bit shocked and surprised but so was I when she said yes. I was overjoyed and excited that I called her up the following day. To make a long story short, I never got to date her. She was interested in another guy at another church she had attended. They quickly became friends and started dating and started a family later. I myself grew angry and feel into depression. I was really certain this girl was "the one" for me according to God. I never really understood how dating and relationships were created and formed. It wasn't until I saw the girl at my church with her husband and her new born baby, that I felt happy for her. My mom and dad made a huge deal it and we're like "Did you see Esther with her family?", "That should have been you instead of that guy!", "You let a good girl slip for your hands!", "I am very disappointed in you!". It honestly made me feel like I wasn't good enough for any girl. I don't get why any parent would say that. I guess my parents were jealous of the girl.

I honestly wouldn't have wanted a family at the age of 23 years and the girl being 20 years old. I wanted to enjoy life and not be forced into married and having children.

Corinthians 1

7) But I wish everyone were single, just as I am. But God gives to some the GIFT OF MARRIAGE, and to others the GIFT OF SINGLENESS. 8) So I say to those who aren’t married and to widows—it’s BETTER to stay unmarried, just as I am.

I been single since then and looking at the Book of Corinthians, I can see Paul was right about being single. It's a gift from God and I truly accept now then I did in my 20's. I been blessed to be a uncle to two nephews and two nieces and they are truly awesome. I think of them as the children I never had. Often times I am asked if they are my children at times and it makes me smile. I have learn how to be patient with children with my nieces and nephews and learn how to love them.

For anyone who questions being single, know it's a gift and enjoy it. Just embrace it and find happiness in life.

The gift of singleness
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