Age is just a number, right?

I've recently been having a debate via several social networking sites, I thought that my blog would be the perfect place to report back my feelings and thoughts, and reflect on some of the comments made by my peers.

'Age is just a number, right?' - Let's assume for all intents and purposes that all of the parties concerned are of or over the consenting age.

I understand that if you love someone, then you love someone. You can't tell your heart who to fall in love with, and at the same time you don't fall in love with someone just for their age. I find it extremely difficult to look past some of these differences. For example Bryan Ferry (Famous Singer from Roxymusic) who is 66/67 has just married a 29 year old. In my opinion, that's ludicrous. However, if the parties in question are in love and are happy, I am also of the opinion that it is their decision, nobody else can comment on what they do not know or fully understand. They must be living two very different lifestyle, one that may be ready to start a family, and the other who may already have a family and is in the relationship for completely different reasons - i.e. physical aspect only.

There are two main schools of thought on this subject. Larger age gaps are completely unacceptable on the one hand, and it's up to those involved on the other. I honestly don't know where I sit on this particular situation. Is it all a bit taboo? Society perceives things in different ways, and everyones' moral compass is different, but is it situational? Does it depend on who is involved, what ages they are, or does it really not make a blind bit of difference? Can people be happy regardless of the judgement and with people frowning on their decisions.

I realise I'm getting overly philosophical over this, but I needed to get it in black and white, structure my thoughts, as I'm completely on the fence. Personally, my instincts tell me that it's not normal - but that doesn't necessarily mean it's not right. At the same time I know people that have made larger age gaps work and are the epitome of happiness and I wholeheartedly support their decisions. I'm also of the opinion that people can make their own decisions and it's up to them what is right/wrong in each situation. We shouldn't judge their relationships as we do not understand what they feel/think, but I cannot help but wonder how the topic has attracted such negative connotations both in media and society in so-called 'modern day'.

Age gaps in relationships can make for a fully-functional set-up. They can also create problems due to those concerned being worlds apart in upbringing or culture for example. I personally think that it is down to the individual to make such a situation work and result in a successful and long term relationship.

Although I am no closer to a clear-cut decision, I am much clearer on both sides of the argument and I will think hard before passing judgement (not that I did anyway) as I don't understand all the details in someone elses' lives. I am fully supportive of those that choose to go ahead with this kind of relationship, but I also don't blame those that steer clear of such a thing all together.

Until next time,

xoxo