‘I’m Christian, single and frightened. Don’t judge me’

Sophie Sanders explores the raw fears and quiet faith of living as a single Christian in a culture obsessed with coupling up. With honesty and hope, she reflects on unmet expectations, God’s providence, and why singleness is not a second-class calling.

Call me a drama queen, but on a semi-regular basis I find myself declaring a slightly amended version of Charlotte Lucas’ meme-worthy words* to a caring – and typically coupled-up – confidante: ‘I’m 28 years old. I’ve no prospects. I’m already a burden to my parents. And I’m frightened. So don’t judge me. Don’t you dare judge me.’

If I’m honest, hectic hormones and postponed plans have usually provoked such an outburst, but the fears and anxieties are very much real.