I am not now married...but have been and have two kids, and grand kid.

Since marrage...I have lived common law twice, once for ten years, more recently for 12 years (she was formally married, with no kids, also). We see no need to marry, but it could happen some day. It would be something special, between us, though.

Am I against marriage. No. But, I see no religious or social reason to do so.

Am I sure of the benefits/risks? In today's world, No, I am not..

It is a personal choice. And to me, should be steeped in trust and sincere discussion.

My daughter has lived with our grand daughters father for three years. They were engaged, to be married, this summer....from no pressure from us. I have no problem with that.

There was a time when people/society would have "issues" with common law relationships...but, that is dwindling in many areas.

Could a relatioinship that was going good, change with marriage? That's a good question I don't have an answer for. Mostly, because there are many different situations, and expectations. IMO, no person could answer that, but the people involved...and even then it is sketchy. Many folks simply reason...it's going well as it is now, why change it?