The Happiness Index : Married Men, Single Women, and Me Defrosting Chicken

"Just for laughs"

My friend and I were discussing an article that claimed married men and single women are the happiest demographic. She sent me the link with a virtual smirk, and I, being the diligent researcher that I am, immediately cross-checked it with my own extensive, real-life fieldwork (otherwise known as marriage).

Married men are the happiest? I can see why. My husband enjoys home-cooked meals, freshly washed laundry, and a highly efficient life manager (me) who “gently” reminds him where his own belongings are. Of course, to be fair, he works incredibly hard too, juggling responsibilities and stress in ways I don’t always see. Not that he’d ever tell me—like a true strong Indian man (*eye-roll*), he keeps his worries locked up, while in my case, our neighbour and half their friend circle could probably write a thesis on mine.

Meanwhile, single women are out there living their best lives—sleeping soundly without being nudged by a snoring partner, making weekend plans without consulting a family group chat, and never having to debate whether they really need another throw pillow (they do!!!). Freedom looks good on them! Though, my husband would dispute the snoring reference—because in our case, both of us compete in the “Great Snore-Off” every night!

And then there’s married women—mysteriously absent from this happiness index. Perhaps because we’re busy keeping small (and not-so-small) humans alive, serving as the household’s emotional support system, and answering the age-old question, “Have you seen my keys?” (Yes, they’re exactly where you left them!). My happiness survey? Oh, I would have loved to fill it out, but I was too busy defrosting chicken and accidentally drinking cold coffee for the third time that day.

Just when I think I have a handle on it all, my mother-in-law throws me a curveball: “Which one of your kids is the most difficult?” she asks with a knowing smile.

I take a deep breath, sip my (now cold) coffee, and answer, “Oh! The one I married.”

P.S: This time sharing some light-hearted thoughts, inspired by my recent conversation with two of my girlfriends 😊 Absolutely no offense meant towards any gender, or any individual; As my daughter would put it – this is “just for laughs”!