In her book "Love in a Headscarf", Shelina Zahra Janmohamed describes her experience of going on a "Family Blind Date" with a potential suitor and his family. She explains that this meeting was set up by her own family members in order to facilitate a potential marriage proposal. Here are some potential benefits and drawbacks that could arise from involving family members in a meeting between suitors:
Benefits:
- Family members can help to break the ice and create a more comfortable atmosphere for the meeting. This is especially true if the suitor and the potential spouse have never met before, as was the case with Janmohamed and her suitor.
- Family members can provide support and guidance during the meeting, both for the suitor and for the potential spouse. This can be especially important if there are cultural or religious differences between the two families.
- Family members can help to assess the compatibility between the suitor and the potential spouse. They may be able to pick up on subtle cues or signals that the suitor or the potential spouse may not notice.
Drawbacks/Complications:
- Family members may have their own biases or prejudices that could influence their assessment of the suitor or the potential spouse. This could lead to misunderstandings or misjudgments.
- Family members may put pressure on the potential spouse to accept the suitor, even if there are reservations or doubts. This could create a sense of obligation or guilt, which could be detrimental to the long-term success of the relationship.
- Family members may have their own agendas or motives for setting up the meeting. For example, Janmohamed's mother was very eager for her to get married and settle down, which could have influenced her decision to set up the "Family Blind Date".
ATLAST :
Involving family members in a meeting between suitors can have both benefits and drawbacks. It is important to approach such meetings with an open mind and a willingness to communicate honestly and respectfully. Additionally, it is important to recognize that each family and cultural tradition may have their own norms and expectations, which should be taken into consideration during the meeting.