Member-only story
Why Aren’t You Married Yet?
She said I was pretty and well-mannered, so why was I not married yet? Why was I still single despite looking good and having good character?
It got me smiling, but deep within, I was also wondering why.
Same person, similar questions, but different responses. What had happened? What had changed?
It was during one of our celebrations. The house was full with different people, family, friends coming in turns to visit. The house was alive with noise and activity from every corner.
But none of it could drown out the silence that echoed in my mind when I heard those words.
I had been oblivious to her stare , or perhaps not paying attention to it even if I had noticed. A silence, followed by a smile grounded in conviction about my reality. The question came and I smiled still, but gave no response. Not because I didn’t know what to say, but because I didn’t want it to come out wrongly , lest it be taken the wrong way or create more confusion in the mind of the one who asked.
How do you really explain to a child that your abilities aren’t enough to suffice you in this duniya?
That your goodness, looks, or personality aren’t all it takes to get a spouse. That your wealth, fame, status, and knowledge are all but a means , not the end.
