Reviewed by Joséphine on
Initial thoughts: Growing up as part of the generation of Christians shaped by the (in)famous book, I Kissed Dating Goodbye, I found 7 Myths about Singleness quite refreshing. It doesn't put being single on a pedestal but neither does it vilify it. It refers to biblical teachings on why one would/should choose to remain single or to marry. At the same time, it explores modern experiences and reactions to choosing one or the other in a way that's relatable.
For example, being single means having more flexibility and freedom to respond immediately to others when they need help. For the author, a pastor, it means he can minister further away from home, without needing to concern himself about being an absent father. On the flip side, being single can give way to loneliness and yearning for companionship.
Of all the myths Sam Allberry covered, I most enjoyed his point that being single doesn't mean giving up family. Family can take shape in many forms, and doesn't only refer to the nuclear family. Family extends to relatives, godparents, friends, neighbours, fellow church members, etc who have a stake in the lives of others. If you help someone raise their child, if you invite others over to cook and provide meals for them, or even if you're so close, you can spend an afternoon in complete silence over an activity because you're all caught up about the happenings in one another's lives, you're family.
Reading updates
- Started reading
- Finished reading
- 22 April, 2019: Reviewed