Yes To Love, No To Marriage
I look forward to sharing that day with my parents and their respective spouses, my brother and my extended family, who have all become accustomed to my independent life choices.
But I want Jeff's parents to be there, too, so I can honor their role in raising such a loving son. I want his brothers and sister, their loved ones and children to join us and share in our joy. They are loving people who have been accepting of me, and I would cherish the chance to introduce them to my daughter, my family and our friends.
Nonetheless, while I know the word "married" would mean something to them, something tangible they could use when describing our life together, I can't do it. I am Jeff's partner, his friend and his lover, and he is mine. The terms "husband" and "wife" wouldn't even begin to describe our relationship.
We've set a date for July to hold our big event. No, we won't get married. But I hope our friends and family still come.
Eslinger lives in Emeryville, Calif.
© 2008
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Member Comments
Posted By: I am. @ 08/29/2008 7:55:03 AM
Comment: The truth is, you and your mate don't want to commit to marriage, when you two decide to go seperate ways. And you will, go seperate ways.
Posted By: nnadine @ 08/26/2008 6:04:30 PM
Comment: We are a man & woman and WE say Yes to Love, No to Marriage. We want God in our relationship, but not the government nor the church. Wewant to profess our love and lifetime commitment to each other. It's between us and God. We don't need anymore.
And, our friend who will perform the commitment ceremony will pronounce us......Happily Unmarried.
Posted By: marieb02 @ 08/04/2008 1:18:16 AM
Comment: We never commit to anything any more. We are a society of serial monogamy, not lifetime commitment. Say what you want, sister, you're commitment is lightweight next to taking the risk of a marriage. Spare me.