11/11... Single by 'The Four'

The idea originated in China and was embraced by the world on November 11, which has become International Singles’ Day. It was launched in 1993 by a group of students at Nanjing University in China as a lighthearted way to celebrate their independence and break the monotony of single life. It later spread globally, acquiring an economic dimension that encourages singles to pamper themselves on this day—chosen because the date consists of the number one repeated four times—and buy what they need.

Regarding the significance of this day, former official in the Ministry of Social Affairs and social consultant Dr. Nasser Al-Ammar told Al-Rai: “This day carries concepts and meanings, including how to respect and appreciate oneself and to care for oneself. A person’s worth and sense of happiness do not necessarily depend on having a life partner.”

He added: “Many people in the world are happy because they know their existential value and live in peace with themselves. Having a heart that embraces everyone, enjoying freedom, and being able to say no or yes at the right time and place allows your decisions to be guided by your aspirations, desires, pains, and hopes.”

He considered that “another benefit of this day is realizing that marriage and union with a woman are not the sole masculine benchmark for proving manhood. Manhood is demonstrated through actions, achievements, and attaining social status.” He emphasized that “joining the membership of society and its various circles does not require the condition of having a wife, but rather the condition of possessing the true meaning of an individual who is productive, conscious, educated, and responsible for his actions.”

He further stated: “In light of the above, I advise young people to marry and unite with someone who completes half of your faith, so you can fulfill your role in this world, maintain balance and rhythm in life, and contribute to building society, while striving to choose virtuous partners and those of strong faith and good character.”

He cited “a European study published three years ago, titled ‘The Price of Singleness,’ which identified 78 potential drawbacks of life without a partner, the most prominent being feelings of psychological loneliness, lack of support and assistance, and the absence of someone to encourage the individual to develop his life.”