All right need groups opinion. I have been with my girlfriend for 8 years. We get along great and I expect we will grow old together. My kids from previous marriage and I currently get our insurance through my girlfriend because we are considered domestic partners. After November her company will no longer support the whole domestic partnership situation. So it's either get married or get insurance through my own company. My girlfriends insurance is better and cheaper than what I would get through my company.
Here's the thing my previous marriage totally disintegrated. It's been 9 years since my divorce and my exwife cant talk to me on the phone. I just have no compulsion to repeat that experience again. I know this is my baggage but it's hard to let go of it. Part of me is afraid that the moment I put a ring on her finger things will change.