Why do people say marriage is not an achievement? I have a problem with general statements like that, because marriage, alongside many other things that define fulfilment and happiness, are subjective.
People who say marriage is not an achievement downplay the feelings of those who got married to their high school love, or the one who stuck with them through thick and thin with love and support; forsaking other alternatives just to be with them.
Personally, marriage is not something I look forward to. But then, to say that marriage isn't something anyone should adore or aspire to simply because I do not, reeks of an absolute sense of authority. There is no universal measure of happiness or fulfilment.
It is however sad that in many cultures, marriage sets the yardstick for success, thus married people tend to condescend and treat single people as non-achievers. But then, this is not just with marriage. Humans have an innate psychological urge to be superior, so they use whatever they consider an achievement to condescend others, be it building a house, owning a business or buying a car. This however does not dismiss the depth of the achievement.
If you are married right now (or you aim to, in future) and you consider it an achievement, then it is. Do not allow anyone choke you into believing it is not.
