What is the point of marriage?

I think it will probably take you a successful marriage before you really realize the benefits. It's hard to list them because a lot of them are feelings. A good marriage is one where you feel safe and you look forward to coming home to that person because they really are your best friend. You can trust them with anything, talk to them about anything and get some lovin whenever you want. A good marriage is worth it, trust me.

You do sound jaded and there probably is no way to give you an idea of the benefits of a good marriage (but I'll try). Your explanations above about when marriage made sense to you was when women were property and men had all of the power. You said you want to be able to walk if she denies or annoys you and that marriage castrates men and they lose half of everything.

In reality there is no reason that anyone need get married if they do not choose. I can guarantee that with the attitude you have there is little chance for a good long-term marriage for you.

Marriage requires a lot of effort and work in order for it to work well. It requires 2 people who are truly committed for it to work. There is no 'hedging the bets' in case things don't work out - if you go in preparing for failure - it will most likely fail. There is no leaving when things get hard - you 'gut' it out together. Many give up when it gets hard - but that is when you need to pull together and that is when the real work begins in a marriage. That is when you really get to know each other and gain each others respect (now, I am not referring to hard things that are marriage 'deal-breakers' such as infidelity, abuse, etc. - those things do end a marriage).

My husband and I have been married for 22 years and together for 24. It has not always been easy, especially early on. We are both very committed and very determined and are reaping the rewards of our determination. We currently have a great marriage and partnership (and have had for a long time now). We are best friends, deeply in love, and enjoy a happy family life (we have teenagers at home still).

The things I have gained and learned about myself, my husband, and life by being married are beyond compare. I get to spend parts of everyday with my best friend talking, laughing, working, making love, and enjoying life. We have built a life together and share a history that is rich with the good, the bad, the ugly, and the funny. I would not trade my husband and the marriage we have for ANYTHING in this world.

I wish for you a happy life - wherever and however you can find it. If you do ever decide to marry - be smart and choose well - Good luck.

I had a dreadful first marriage too so I know how you feel. that was over 20 years ago and stayed single a long time. I wasn't bitter with men, in fact I had a few nice boyfriends in between but they all ended as friends because I figured I had my #1 son and that was good enough. I traveled and took classes. 11 years ago I met my soul mate suddenly and unexpectedly, cupid aimed that bow at a couple hearts and now I am married again and that will be 9 years June 2010. I fought that urge to commit and so did he because we both were married before and stubbornly wanted to remain bachelor and bachelorette. We gave in and now still happy. Those 2 years of being stubborn was fun though.

never ever get remarried!( unless she's rich) in america there is no benefit to the male to marry. in fact i was over my ex wife's house today and just hearing and seeing the way she treats her newer husband was disgusting! and i know he'd probably have split too by now but he doesn't want to lose all his stuff!

marriage is a wonderful thing between the right peoples sorry you pick the wrong one

Marriage is great if you can get your wife to Obey You and no one else. Takes a while but once you get her trained (and do it properly) things can be good.