In cultures shaped by patriarchal religious principles, cultures like mine, it was socially acceptable and even common for teenage women to marry men in their 30s.

Men married when they were financially stable.

Women married when they were biologically able to bear children.

Obviously this pattern is disgusting, but it remains consistent with very traditional, impoverished societies in which women tend to have little power.

Meaning: for many of us, this was the norm for generations.

It's disgusting. Despicable. Pathetic.

But if men can get away with it and still be deemed socially acceptable, and if men are terrified of powerful women--this pattern will continue.