LAST EDITED ON 01-31-13 AT 02:57 AM (EST)Marriage is about being partners in life with free expression of love for each other.
Procreation is shared in marriage for those people who are capable of it and (we hope) who take care of the responsibilities that come with bringing new life into this world. Not always, though, is procreation desired between two people, one or both of whom are not ready to meet the responsibilities that come with it. Thus, birth control and legally defined abortions, even for those who might think that life begins with conception.
Although procreation has long been associated with marriage, legally, socially and religiously, it is still only one facet of a lifetime partner commitment between two (and in some cultures, possibly more) people who wish to do so.
And procreation does occur outside of marriage (for better or worse).
Marriage and procreation are two completely different events, one marks a highly personal, legal, social and possibly religious milestone, while the other marks the event of a potential new life.
Although my daughter is still only 8 years old, I think that I would advise her to follow both her heart and her mind, and where they don't agree, look more closely. When the time comes, it will be her life choice.