Can a parent have a huge effect and say on who you like and what you find attractive in a person?

Although as teenagers we do seek the approval of our parents, I believe they should not have as big of an effect as they do. Who we like, what we like, how we feel, and who we choose to date should not be dictated by anyone-- let alone our parents even if they do want the best for us.

Parents not only teach us at an early age what to look for in people, they tend to dictate to us in our adolescent years who we can and can not date. Love is an amazing feeling and love is the most important and most needed thing in today's society. If you feel you have a deep attraction to someone, and you feel that you could see yourself being with them and being happy, then why let anyone discourage you?

Family is so important. I know the value of being close with family members, but if family is willing to give up on you because you're doing what makes you happy, how is that a supportive family member at all?

Family is filled with love. Family should want to see you happy in all the aspects of your life. If you have family members who can not put their wishes aside for your happiness, you do not need them. Happiness is decided by what you love and what you want to do.

All that should matter in terms of dating is whether or not you are dating a good person and if they are treating you well.

You should always do what you think is right and what you know will make you happy and if people can not handle that then those people do not matter.

So, if any of you feel that this article applies to you, I hope that you choose to put yourself and your happiness first, because in the end that is what matters along with the love you receive.

Those who matter will not mind, and those that mind will not matter. - Dr. Seuss