What happens when you aren't quite ready to marry, but the other person is, and you suddenly find yourself being asked a question that you just did not want to hear? How do you respond, how do you say no, exactly what is there to say if you don't want to accept a marriage proposal?
If you are receiving a proposal of marriage from someone then it is most likely because you have been enjoying a relationship that is enjoyable enough for the other person to want to take it up a step further. This means that at the very least you are close friends with this significant other person in your life, and friends should discuss things honestly, and openly with each other. Treat this question and your friend with the respect that they deserve.
It is a very deep honor to have another person offer to spend the rest of their life with you within the sacred vows of marriage. When the marriage proposal is offered, it shows a caring, and respect for you that merits a reciprocation of that respect. Usually one or the other partner in a relationship does expect to have the question of marriage arise at some point within their relationship, but every so often, it just comes a little too soon. Perhaps you still want to pursue your career a little further, and don't feel that you have the time, and dedication to truly offer into a full time relationship. Perhaps you are still not sure that this person is the one that you want to spend the rest of your life with or perhaps you are just not quite ready to head into marital bliss just yet. Whatever your reasons for needing to refuse this offer, you have to come up with a tactful, and honest way of saying no without offending your friend in the process.
The emotions that come along with love are deep ones and it can be a very painful experience for someone to have their overtures of love refused. This is where discussing your feelings and theirs becomes very important. Thank them for asking you, let them know that you are honored to have received such an offer, and then explain your feelings as to why you feel you feel that you must decline. Be as honest, and as open as you can be, without being insensitive to their feelings.
Allow and encourage the proposer to discuss their feelings, as well as their reasons, for asking at this point in time for your hand in marriage. Discussing the proposal honestly, and openly with each other, will make the refusal much less uncomfortable to discuss in the future. Remember that you are friends first, and that although this is a pretty major issue, that it is still just one issue among many that you will need to discuss within your relationship.
Moving forward within a relationship can occur at any point in the future, but working at preserving a friendship, must occur on a constant basis.
Say no, but say it with respect. By offering you a proposal of marriage this person has paid you one of the highest compliments that you will receive during your lifetime. Discuss your feelings and reasons, but also allow, and encourage your friend to discuss their feelings and reasons. Honor this proposal, and your friend, with all the dignity and respect that this event deserves.