Early Adulthood

Earlier today, I found out that yet another of my childhood friends, Mark, has fathered a child and gotten married (as usual, in that order). I find this incredibly awkward, at least partially because my fondest memories of Mark are of the kid who was obsessed with making farting noises with his armpits. Thus, it’s a bit of a struggle to picture the lad raising a child.

But, really, this is just the latest occurrence of an ongoing series of events. I’ve alarmingly noticed that the majority of my childhood chums are already at the very least engaged, if not married, and nearly all of them have fathered a child or two. The truth is, I worry that I’m lagging behind a bit. I’ve become convinced that quite soon there will be no girls left here at all. It is a small town, you know.

Now, understand, I’m hardly complaining that I have yet to become engaged and/or father a child. I’m rather sure that’d be a horrid idea. No, what worries me really isn’t that I haven’t, but that so many others have. Truthfully, as anyone who knows me well can vouch for, I am not at all equipped to properly raise a child. But, still, if I may be a tad narcissistic for a moment, I imagine I’m much more equipped than most of my childhood companions.

Yes, honestly, I question the current status of dear Mark and his armpit serenades as an adequate father figure. Really, he’s not even old enough to legally drink yet, and he’s already starting a family?

And the divorce rate is only 50%?

Your friend should get props for “doing the right thing” and people DO mature. He might have fallen in love with this girl. Things don’t have to be in proper order to work. I got married after I had my son and I am happily married, 2 years strong now. My hubby and I had been together for many years prior to marriage though to make SURE we were right for one another.

Ok… Wow. Are your friends the same age as you? No offence…but I think very *few* people are equipped to deal with a child/spouse at that age. So you’re in no way ‘backward’ that you aren’t jumping into the matrimonial bandwagon. 🙂

SexCrazedBizitch

August 8, 2005

same thing with me. im from a small louisiana town and every girl i was friends with in high school is now married, pregnant or already has a child. oh and sorry its been so long since ive left you a note. when i was in london i didnt get on here too much so im trying to get back in the habit! laura

I hear you! It seems like everyone around me (and their dogs) are getting married or having children… not just one, but several. Marriage, pregnancy… It’s like an addiction or something. LOL

michael.

August 9, 2005

I think they should neuter unsuitable parents… at around the age of 13.

its different here…all the girls are getting married. they’re not pregnant, they jus WANT to get married @ this age…how dumb!!!!

heatherette

August 10, 2005

I just wanted to leave a note.

MagnoliaBlossom

August 11, 2005

I read the divorce rate is 60%. But very interesting intelligent essay. What’s the hurry right? ur not going to dry up or anything.. not yet anyway.. lol Have a wonderful day hun. <3/

Whatever happend to the goddess search?

green2009

August 12, 2005

I watched a friend marry at the mature and wise age of 17…I don’t understand it either. I guess we might understand if we were in the situation… *shrugs* Have a great weekend. Heather—->

october rain

ryn: Yes, as a matter of fact, I have. Thanks for all the encouraging words, Matty. ^_^