Boyfriends. Boys. Friends.

So many titles. These titles used to mean a whole lot to me- believe me. I used to get so down in the dumps because I wasn't the girl who had all the guys and could get any guy she wanted, whenever she wanted him. I used to actually be desperate to have a boyfriend. Let me say it again for those who didn't hear me, desperate. In fact, there are many instances when I look back at my old self, and I am ashamed of how I acted around boys. Any boys. All boys. Believe it or not, I am so thankful now that I have never had a boyfriend. Don't get me wrong- I still want one, yes, but thinking about it, I am genuinely thankful because I don't have anyone to compare my future spouse to.

I feel like, especially in today's society, we get so caught up in wanting a boyfriend. Wanting to have someone. Not even for the right reasons. The lust and want for these intimate relationships are what lead a lot of people to be completely desperate for this bond with someone else. From not having a boyfriend, I have learned to accept that one can function completely normally without that significant other in one's life at all times. I know it's a crazy concept but bear with me on this one. Not only can you function completely without someone, you can also learn to love yourself (disregard Justin Bieber's "Love Yourself" in this case). Loving yourself should always be a priority, whether you are in a relationship or not. Learn how to treat yourself. Learn how to accept who you are and show off every quality you have. Through this, I have also learned to set a standard of what I want in a man. Yes, a man. That right there is a major key to finding the right guy. He needs to act like a man, not just some hormonal teenage boy. Through making this list of 'non-negotiable qualities,' I have thus learned to never bend the rules for anyone. It is easy to worry that you will never find "the one," or to believe that you aren't worthy of that intimate bond with your future spouse. First and foremost, prayer is key in this process big time. Pray for your future spouse every day. It sounds crazy but just try it. Everyday. Twice a day. Once an hour. Whatever you believe is suitable for YOU. Don't lose patience throughout this process as you will see God's results in God's timing.

In no way am I meaning to look down on those who have had a boyfriend/girlfriend. Trust me, I wish I had one. All I am saying is that maybe not having a significant other isn't so bad after all? Maybe you don't HAVE to always have someone in your life to fulfill these needs. God will send the guy (or girl- this post applies to the fellas as well) who has ALL of- or even more than, these qualities. When the time is right, and God brings this special someone into your life, it will be all the worthwhile.