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Someone mentioned today is "Single's Day." I'm a fan of actively dismantling the idol of romance and partnership, particularly in the church, and discussing singleness as a valid, joy-filled option. Singles, what do you love about being single? My thoughts in thread.
1) Flexibility. I love being able to take last-minute trips, I love being able to travel alone and make random decisions ("oh I had a hike planned but i'm gonna skip that and sit in a pastry shop).
2) Wider investment. This may be my fave. I consider singleness the gift of investing in many households, not just one. I have a key to 4 houses that are not my own. I have chosen siblings, nieces, nephews. I can babysit for my coupled friends. I can take your 1 am phone call.
3) Spiritual family life. Being single has made me invest in, and connect with, my local church in a rich way. I love holding myself responsible for others in a way that nuclear families often confine to their own household (against scripture, but y'all ain't ready for that).
4) Hobbies. Did you know solo board games exist? I love a lazy Saturday by myself, playing a board game, followed by a comic in a hammock.
5) Lower financial need. I could probably live the rest of my life on what I make right now, at 29 - and I live in NJ where housing is $$$. I love not having to work myself to burnout for fear of providing for a family. I love living on less, not hustling. It's a life of peace.
6) Greater financial investment. @jamietworkowski says that "there are people who invest in stocks, and there are people who invest in stories." Since I need less money, I can give a little more generously. I intentionally support queer missionaries. (Cnt'd)
I started a fund to cash out in 10+ years, to help my nieces and nephews pay for college textbooks. I have been able to help my friend pay for 2 months of therapy when he couldn't afford it. I send $ to Side B college kids to encourage them. Financial flexibility rocks.
7) Rich friendship. Y'all, my singleness has unlocked greater friendship for my community, cuz I just need them. My need of them has allowed us all to love one another more richly. We're better for it.
8) Living with my best friend. This is a new one, and I'm crazy about it. I love living with Nick. He is so encouraging, so fun, so thoughtful. I'm glad we have each other as brothers.
9) Control over my sleep schedule. I'm constantly praying for my parent friends to have restful sleep.
There are so many more. Would love to hear yours.
