Yes, it may be true that those men and women who are financially independent (ie: independently wealthy) may not need (or want) a legal commitment with another person, however...

• few of us will ever have the level of independent wealth women like Oprah enjoy
• there is some data (albeit most of it comes from studying mostly average middle class straight couples) showing that, happily married folk have better sex lives, fatter bank accounts, healthier bodies, etc. than single folk (I believe that's because, for the average person, two heads/incomes/etc. are better than one).

Also - I don't want to generalize but many of us still are socialized (or get it from somewhere) the need to 'belong to' and 'own' another person.  I know it may sound funny but life is hard and cruel and when two people pledge to stick it out with one another through it all, that's special.  Yes, I know you don't have to get married to do this, however, there is something ineffable that does happen often when people marry that helps them 'stay the course'.

I recently saw a post about marriage on a gay board. The question asked was, "How long should you wait before getting married to your girlfriend?"... I had to pause on that one...

 While there are certainly many long term couples who will want the spousal benefits that go along with marriage...I wonder if growing up without having to think about it will have its downside.

With a few notable celebrity exceptions, straight people are used to thinking about whether their current lover is "the one." For most people, "the one" means more than love. They are at least aware that marriage is mainly a financial contract  and that it lingers long after everyone has forgotten that lovely ceremony!

While I think it is right and good that we now have the right to marry (at least in one state),  I think Oprah Winfrey once said it best when she commented that a woman who is financially stable doesn't need a legal commitment...

Well, Kate.  I do know this - I interviewed you a couple of years ago before a benefit you did in New Mexico and I told you then the best ticket for the democratic nomination would have been 'Clinton and Clinton'.  And, I meant it - you are smart as all get out AND your humor would be refreshing in the halls of power.

Here's a couple questions for you...

1)  marriage - perhaps you've blogged on this one before but, would you be willing to share why you and Ursha won't be tying the knot?

2)  speaking of Clinton - do you think Obama will eventually tap her as VP???? 

c u soon!

beachgrrl.................