[Aliska]

In my opinion, I think the need for a spouse and family is as much a need as food, water and shelter.

I don't see it that way any more for a number of reasons. Men need a powerful incentive to want to settle down. Look at all the horrible marriages, even the supposed "good" ones. It may be a need, but it goes unmet for so many no matter what they try. Promiscuity has clouded the issue further. When men are getting their sexual needs met, they don't seem to be much in a hurry to do otherwise.

A need to be whole. I don't see it as a weakness to ferret out unworthy priest candidates.

Being whole doesn't necessarily depend on marriage unless you are very fortunate and find someone just right for you. You sure get shattered in one heck of a hurry when you are having problems in your marriage, even little ones.

[Bluntpoint]

"Being whole doesn't necessarily depend on marriage unless you are very fortunate and find someone just right for you."

Being whole in marriage is attainable.

It certainly is a more realistic goal than celibacy for priests.

When a marriage does not work out, for whatever reasons, no sane person would counsel: "Pretend that it is working, perceptions are all that count.'

That does seem to be the advice I am hearing when it comes to celibacy.