Everyone, especially guys who feel unlucky in the romance department, knows the term “Nice Guys Finish Last.” Green Day even sang a song about it. Most guys ages 12 and up know the pressure to become a “bad boy” to make the girls like them more.The ones that stay nice wonder when their day will come.

Guys, your day is always here.

You’re sweet, considerate, respectful of your parents, and understanding of the rules that are set in place for the establishments you’re a part of.You try to avoid trouble unless it’s absolutely necessary.Altruistic, you try not to only think of yourself and are conscious of the things you say and how you say them, trying not to hurt those around you.

You’ve liked the same girl for awhile, but you don’t want to pressure her into anything.She might have a boyfriend.If you tell her how you feel, she might feel pressured.You care so much about her and value her friendship.The last thing you want is to make her feel uncomfortable.For her sake, you wait.And wait.But you never get over her.

I was one of those girls.I spent high school in some not-so-healthy relationships, and through it all, a nice guy was waiting for me.He was always thoughtful, always considerate, and always respectful.We almost held hands once, but I pulled away.We never talked about it.We’d always had fun together, and I thought,

“He’d make a great husband one day.”

For someone. Not for me, but for someone. He was like my little brother, just a kid who still seemed to have some growing up to do.

The summer after my freshman year of college, we started talking more again.We took walks in the dark, sat on the tractors at the county fair under the stars after midnight and told each other our stories since we last had been close.We spoke of hurtful memories and vivid aspirations, encouraging one another.We held hands again.This time, I didn’t pull away.

He’ll be my great husband one day.

Bad boys are just that: Boys.They are not men.The never grow up, never truly achieve adulthood.Their tempers and immaturity prevent them from doing so.

My friend grew up, and into an even more lovely young man than he was when we first were friends.Now I love few things more than to hear him laugh and to see him smile.

Let the girls get the “bad boys” out of their system.If they’re smart, they’ll one day open their eyes to your kindness.You’re great, and don’t need any girl to tell you so.Listen to the people around you who are telling you so, because they’re right.Be patient. It pays off. Nice guys might not come first chronologically, but they definitely win first place.