Every time I log into my Facebook account I feel like I see pictures and an updated relationship status of "X got engaged to X." Good for them. I'm glad that those two people found their lifetime partner--that's a rare thing in society that's not to be underappreciated.
That's not for everyone, though.
I'd rather stand by 50 of my closest friends' sides on their wedding day than think about mine right now. In fact, the idea of being a bride is the last thing on my mind.
When my friends start talking about what colors they want at their wedding, what flowers they want or who they want the DJ to be I just sit there in silence--waiting for them to get to the part where they tell me what color dress, for better or for worse, I'll be stuck in for the day.
I love being there and the concept of being there for my friends on their big day because it is a monumental day, but I'm perfectly happy being the bridesmaid and bringing myself as my date to my friends' wedding.
When I look at my immediate future, even the next 10 years, I see my career goals and ambitions and where I want to be as a young professional. I don't see myself spending hours in a dress shop trying to figure out which style wedding dress I like better--it's just not my style.
For me, there's more to life than finding the person I'm going to marry. Dating and serious relationships take away time from things I'm truly passionate about, and, to be honest, I'm not ready to give those things up or really compromise on those things in any way, shape or form right now.
Some people tell me I prefer being the bridesmaid just because I haven't found "the one" yet.
Maybe I prefer being the bridesmaid just because I like living life on my own.
I like putting all of my time and energy into my career and my goals, and none of my goals have anything to do with finding a husband.
I'm always the bridesmaid over the bride, and I wouldn't have it any other way.