英文阅读：Marriage in Iran and America

英语自学网

　　Though marriage is practiced in almost all countries of the world,the
customs are quite different from one culture to another.It is interesting for me
to compare the customs of marriage in the United States with those in my
country.
        　　I`ve lived in the U.S.for four years now,but I`m still not comfortable with
the customs here.In fact,what seems strange to me is that couring or dating is
not always for the purpose of finding a husband to wife.Some people seem to do
it as a hobby.
        　　Here in the United States,I have noticed that courting is begun by the
young couple themselves,and they seem to have a lot of freedom to decide and do
what they want.Both young men and women date a number of different people.They
do it without the knowledge or help of their parents.In fact,I have known
several friends who got married without even telling their parent or other
family members.
        　　At the actual wedding ceremony,the father of the bride symbolically gives
his daughter to the groom. It`s only a custom,I think,because the bride and
groom already know each other quite well.