Single Over 30
This body of work is based on my personal experience as a single woman in my 30s residing in Utah County.
The doctrine of marriage and family are important aspects of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our local religious culture places a heavy emphasis on the idea that marriage should take place in one's early 20s, an ideal that is not entirely doctrinal. For those who do not have the opportunity, are divorced, or have other personal reasons for not marrying at an early age, this expectation can be spiritually and emotionally damaging. Too often, we in this demographic are marginalized by our fellow church members and families, and are judged as being less valuable to society.
The purpose of my work is twofold: I want to bring awareness that such attitudes are incongruous with the teachings of Jesus Christ, who values everyone equally in his kingdom. I also want this to be a place of commiseration for those who have had similar experiences, regardless of their current marital status. Let's find our common ground as well as the value of our different opportunities in life.
The doctrine of marriage and family are important aspects of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our local religious culture places a heavy emphasis on the idea that marriage should take place in one's early 20s, an ideal that is not entirely doctrinal. For those who do not have the opportunity, are divorced, or have other personal reasons for not marrying at an early age, this expectation can be spiritually and emotionally damaging. Too often, we in this demographic are marginalized by our fellow church members and families, and are judged as being less valuable to society.
The purpose of my work is twofold: I want to bring awareness that such attitudes are incongruous with the teachings of Jesus Christ, who values everyone equally in his kingdom. I also want this to be a place of commiseration for those who have had similar experiences, regardless of their current marital status. Let's find our common ground as well as the value of our different opportunities in life.
Copyright © 2023 Katie Benson. All rights reserved.
