Self-reflection: Is it wrong not to date or get married?

Time flies, and I'm almost 27. I used to hear people say that school is the best matchmaking agency, and now I think there's some truth to that. In middle and high school, I had a lot of girls chasing me, and I'm not stupid, so there were a few who made my heart flutter. But the strange thing is, even when I was attracted to them, I never took the initiative.

When someone approached me with overtures, I'd always brush them off with, "I don't want to talk about that right now." Seeing their frustrated expression, I'd feel a pang of guilt. While offering soothing words, my feet felt rooted to the spot. Looking back, perhaps it was because I was young and afraid of trouble, or perhaps it was simply not meant to be—even though my heart was stirring, I chose to close the door.

After entering society, life becomes much simpler. Every day, I'm either in front of the computer or staying at home, with very few opportunities to interact with the opposite sex. These days, more and more people are choosing not to marry or have children. One person feeds the whole family, and without having to accommodate anyone, I can do whatever I want—this kind of life is truly free.

But my parents' nagging always echoes in my ears: "We can still be with you now, but what will you do when we're gone?" At first, I could ignore them, but the more I hear them, the more my heart begins to tremble. Sometimes, in the quiet of the night, I wonder: If I hadn't been so stubborn and tried to get along with the person I loved, would I now be living the kind of marriage my parents expected?

The other day, I was scrolling through my social media and saw a girl I once pursued post a family photo. Her kids are already in elementary school. And then there was that girl who once made my heart flutter. She posted a travel photo with her boyfriend. Her smile still had those dimples I remember. Seeing everyone doing well, I looked back at myself and found myself still alone.

It's not that I envy other couples, but I'm suddenly a little lost: Was my initial insistence on "not taking the initiative, not accepting" right? Was my long-held belief in not wanting to fall in love or get married really wrong?

But then I think about it: there's no such thing as absolute right or wrong in life. Some people find warmth in the comforts of their daily lives, while others find peace in solitude. If fate truly decrees marriage, it will naturally lead me there. What's important is that I'm truly enjoying my solo life right now—I can manage my time as I please, focus on my interests, and discover a more authentic version of myself in solitude.

Perhaps this is just how life is. No matter which path you choose, there will be regrets, but also beautiful scenery. Since you've chosen to walk alone, savor the scenery along the way. If one day you want to travel with others, have the courage to start again. Contentment brings happiness; peace of mind is your home.