I work full time, always have, but I am not financially independent. On Long Island, I don't even think that's possible for most people. 18 years ago, when I first got engaged to AH (he was in recovery at the time and I was raising my 3 kids (not his) on my own). I was financially independent then and remember always telling AH that I "chose" to marry him, I didn't "need" to marry him. Unfortunately, in the past 6 or so years, we've refinanced the house to get a better interest rate, did it for a shorter period of time (payments bigger) and co-mingled our funds, car payments, etc. so that right now, I could not make it on my own. Even apts. here cost so much! But one thing I have learned, never depend on anyone but yourself, and I will never make that mistake again! Today, and everyday, I do thank God for that lesson!