Navigating Age Gaps in Relationships: Advice & Considerations

Question
Me and my boyfriend have been together for atleast 3 years.
We love each other alot. the problem is is that i am 16, and he is 18. When i graduate we want to get married. others doubt that we will last, but the circumstances between us, give us hope. every says, that we can't take care of each other, what is your advice.

Answer
Dear Danielle,
I have no doubt that you and your boyfriend love one another and are mature enough to take care of each other. The major concern I have, is that you both will change dramatically in the next 5 to 10 years. Sometimes people change a large amount and sometimes people change very little. If you both do not change very much, you will have a better chance at the relationship working out. If one of you change or if both of you change, then the chances of your marriage succeeding are small. If you both do not change much, then you have a better chance at staying married and not going through the hassle of a divorce. Many people do not consider divorce when they talk about getting married. They look at the benefits of being married and having a beautiful white wedding and do not realize the consequences of the possibility of divorce. Divorce is even worse than one usually realizes. It involves months and sometimes many years of stress and heartache. It can cost thousands of dollars to hire lawyers and get the documents situated. When children are involved, it becomes even more difficult and complicated and it will end up being this way for the rest of your life. The children become hurt and distraught. Many times you do not get to have a say in where or what your children go or do. It is better to wait to get married so that you make sure neither one of you change in any way. Make the best of the next 5 years and get to know each other even more. There is no hurry to get married quickly. You can still be together and enjoy one another. Dating is fun and enjoy it while you can. You will have many years to be married, so just enjoy your young years together. Just make sure you do not become pregnant during this time before you marry later in life. If you become pregnant, you will not be able to live your life to its full capacity. You will regret it and you will have to put your dreams and successes on hold. You need to live your life for you right now. Enjoy time spent just on you and nobody else. This is something that you would never be able to experience again in your life-guaranteed. Follow your logic in your head, not your fantasies in your heart. You are a smart girl for thinking in this way and writing to someone concerning this issue. I'm glad you wrote and please write back if you need to.
Take care!
Kiya