Thirsty.

This absurd slang term has not yet shown itself in 2016 (much to my pleasure), but it unfortunately still describes so many of us.

We can’t fully deny it. We put on a brave face. We walk confidently — chin up, head held high. But that plunging feeling down in the depths of our hearts still remains.

“Am I really still single?”

Yes, singleness is celebrated! "I’ll Netflix and chill with myself," we say. "I’m actually in a committed relationship with Target," we say. "These are my years to thrive and build up myself," we say.

Singleness is not a punishment. And wanting a relationship is not a crime.

But as wedding season approaches, the constant, cloudy reminder of “dreaded” singleness looms over us.

And if it hurts, what do we do? If we can’t shove thoughts out of our mind, what do we do? If we’re having trouble staying self-reliant, what do we do?

We wait.

But why do we wait?

1. The natural, organic way prevails over pushy.

It isn’t healthy to force things. That guy who’s giving you attention for this moment, may not end up being perfect for you. Don’t give your heart to everyone you meet immediately. Let things take their course.

2. Singleness is making you stronger.

There are people who don’t know how to be alone because they’ve never been without a partner. There are people who have lost their identities in someone else. These are years where you’re learning to be your own person. You’re growing into who you were made to be.

3. There’s something so much better waiting for you.

That saying always goes: there are good things that come to those who wait. Instead of wasting time on numerous relationships, sticking around for that one — that one that is pure, and right, and beautiful — is so much more worth it. I guarantee it.