This is in response to the article in Lifestyle dated 11th September 2011. I feel that the earliest stage at which they can get rings is their engagement. If they are merely 'going steady' with each other, there is no real need to get rings. This is because at this stage, they have a higher chance of breaking up more quickly, since there is no formal bond of engagement or marriage to make them think twice. Once they have broken up, the rings become insignificant and instead a source of pain.
I feel that if couples get rings at too early a stage, it is a novelty to them, especially for those who are still on the rungs of new love. If couples are truly committed to each other, there is no harm waiting till the stage of engagement to get rings. They should be concentrating on strengthening and maintaining their bond, as they work towards that stage. After all, "the most beautiful things are not seen but are felt with the heart." As long as they are aware of their decision to commit to each other and their fidelity to each other , there is no need to show the world with such extravagant luxuries. A simple gesture of lacing fingers with each other or putting arms around the waists is enough.
