Wanting Someone

In the LDS culture it is customary for girls to get married young and start a family. I am still young (in the world's view) but I'm starting to feel like an old person in this culture. When ever I start talking about how I'm never going to get married people tell me "You're still young" "don't worry about it" and "Yeah right." Well I guess I am still young but I do worry about it. Ever since i was little i have wanted to have someone who loves me as their other half. It has been something I have longed for and have been waiting (mostly patiently) for. The other day I was talking with my mom and sister (who got married at 18). My mother said something to the extent of "I'm glad you (talking to my sister) got married young. You always seemed like you needed someone to take care of you" "You (now she's talking to me) on the other hand, have always been strong."..... WHAT?!?! Just because I seem strong means I don't need someone. There are days when all I need is someone to hold me and tell me every things going to be okay. It was then that I started thinking about if I really need a man.
Another encounter with a friend recently helped me with my thought process. I was feeling lonely about "Charlie" and mentioned to her that "I need a Man" she said no you don't, you can get along just fine with out them. (she had been going through some boy stuff as well). Am I the only one that thinks I need a man? I want someone to take care of me. Yes I can take care of myself and I will for as long as I need to, but to have someone to hold you when times are hard, would fill my fondest dreams. I want someone who I can talk to always, someone who wants to see me when ever he has free time. Someone who knows my heart and knows my feelings.
People say I am strong, and don't NEED someone. This is crazy! I know that I need someone. I get by these days because of the hope that someday someone will come along and make me realize that I really, really need them. I may seem like I am so put together but I know what is going on in side my head and in my heart. They are crying out for someone to care. I have the best friends in the world but they can not fill the empty void that is left in my heart, just waiting for someone to come along.
Many people have told me that love just hurts, you don't ever want to fall in love, because it never lasts. You will get your heart broken, You'll just break up with him. SO WHAT?!?! I want to feel that, if even for a short period of time. I want to give myself completely to someone and have them do the same. I want/need someone who will call me his. someone who I can call mine. I long for that day.

Sincerely,
Accommodating Artist