It's okay. I don't mind answering the busybodies if it helps someone else esp. a young girl to LISTEN TO HER PARENTS (or clergy whoever is giving good advice).
Here are a couple of random thoughts from someone who married at 35 and has now been married for almost nine years. Wonderful husband, very happy marriage, and two fantastic kids.
1. A happy marriage requires two things: finding the right person and BEING the right person. I found a great Christian counselor who helped me work through a handful of minor issues. This helped a great deal with identifying emotionally healthy men. I read somewhere that you will attract people who are as emotionally healthy as you are. I highly recommend counseling IF you can find a wise, balanced and Christian counselor.
2. I met dh in an AOL chatroom, of all places. ("Christian Singles") With a few common sense precautions, I think the internet is a great way to meet potential mates.
There really are normal, well-grounded single men out there. Oh, and my dh is seven years younger than I am. Maybe you should check out the graduating class of 2004 -- university grads, that is!