Today, some Singaporeans consider little preparation for marriage. Couples are rushing into marriage without really knowing each other’s values. Knowing each other’s values is important because it can firmly preserve our marriage though periods of pain and hardship. Pre-marital pregnancy and elopement are common.

It is important that we know the stages of marriage preparation so we can be prepared and ready when the time comes. Here are the stages of marriage preparation:

• Remote preparation: Remote preparation refers to the period in which our respect for human values (both interpersonal and social) is transmitted and instilled. This implies formation of character and self-control. In remote preparation, it includes periods from infancy, childhood and adolescence.

• Proximate preparation: Proximate preparation takes place during period of engagement. In this period, it will be useful to verify the maturation of our soon-to-be partner pertaining to relationship and friendship.

• Immediate preparation: In immediate preparation, couples can do the necessary preparations like booking the venue, caterer, looking for a gown, invitation cards, pre-nuptial shoot and the like. Couples here in Singapore jump to this kind of preparation because they are unaware of the preceding preparations.

The preparation for marriage leads to married life; it is an urgent need. It is important that we consider the marriage preparation to firmly preserve our marriage. We do not need to rush because this is not a race. There are many people that we can consider to give us counsel and guidance before choosing to get married.

Let us be serious when we consider marriage. After marriage, we will face another challenge – raising a family.