I haven't touched your palm with mine or rested my body beside yours under the night sky, letting it fill our lungs with star stuff. Yet, I know the universe will explode in our eyes, bursting into everything between our bodies. I haven't heard you sing off-key to your favorite song while your hair falls against your shoulder, slowly brushing your cheek. I haven't driven with the windows down with you in my car as the sunlight runs through the vehicle, through us, as though we were formless. However, I look forward to those moments the most. I look forward to how you'll make me forget the world is spinning. I look forward to how you'll make me remember what it's like to feel alive.

There's a few things you should know though...

1. I believe in romantic gestures, however cheesy they may be

2. I believe in the power of words on paper, not texts

So, you'll be getting a lot of written poetry and letters. It'll make Ryan Gosling's letters look like elementary in comparison.

3. I believe firmly a relationship requires the effort and participation of both people

So, I absolutely would love to do the things you like, I'll teach you how to rock climb, and I'll play board games with you and your family quite often (Pandemic, Betrayal at House on the Hill, Settlers of Catan, and many more). My family is a huge board game kind of family. It's kind of our thing.

4. I get annoyingly happy sometimes

I get depressed, sometimes, too. I rarely ever get mad or angry. Frustrated? Maybe, but I'd talk about it if I ever do. No matter what mood I'm in, stick with me. I promise it'll be worth it.

5. I cannot stand arguing or fighting

I legitimately avoid any confrontaion that I feel could turn hostile. So, if ever there's a disagreement on something, I ask that we handle it quickly and peacefully.

6. I want to go on actual dates with you and not just sit around all the time because "Netflix" isn't really a date

I want to have fun with you. I want to go new places we've never been. I want to eat new foods with you, too. I want to go to the Grand Canyon with you, someday. I want to try things I never would've tried because I want you to push me out of my comfort zone. I want to grow with you and because of you.

7. I will tell you how beautiful you are every day

Not just aesthetic beauty, but the personality you have, the thoughts you think, and the cute mannerisms you present will all be complimented daily. There's no such thing as "too nice."

8. I sing so horribly and I know it sounds ridiculous, but I love doing it anyway

If I'm lucky, you'll join along. I pray you don't go deaf.

(Still one of my favorite videos on the Internet)

9. More seriously, regarding faith, I do believe in God

I believe He will bring us closer over time and help us to thrive in this wonderful life.

10. I'm not ignorant, though

I know bad things happen to good people. I know nothing is for certain and the future is only temporary. Above all else, I know I'll care for you and only you. I'm a huge stickler for trust, honesty and faith. We can share those equally together, and everything else will happen around us.

11. I don't give up easily

I'm stubborn, but in a good way, I think. If there'a a disagreement to be had, it's not the end of the world. It's just a speed bump. I've seen relationships crumble in the blink of an eye because the two people couldn't handle the first sign of trouble. I won't give up. Unless one of us drives the other crazy so much that we can't stand each other and leaving is the only option, I won't give up. I won't think that will happen, though.

(Seriously, The Office can be the best inspiration.)

12. I am beyond happy

I feel good about myself for the first time in long time. I feel good about you, though you're far away. I feel good about the future.

"I love the handful of the earth you are.
Because of its meadows, vast as a planet,
I have no other star. You are my replica
of the multiplying universe" - Pablo Neruda from "Sonnet XVI"