Nineteen years and counting…of single life! This is my go-to mantra as I head into my sophomore year of college. Though I tend to dwell on my lack of any kind of relationship and/or interaction with boys, I owe it to some of my best role models for having the expectations that I do today. Although expectations may sometimes seem unrealistic and impractical, the people in my life have shown me what is important in long-term relationships and have given me tips on how to succeed in making these relationships fruitful and enduring. I thank them and would like to recognize them on how much I appreciate their examples of strong, faithful, and well-rounded relationships.

Firstly, I would like to thank my parents (who are going on their 30th year of marriage) for showing me the importance of openness and expressing one's true self in a relationship. These qualities are not only a key factor in making the relationship last, they help it grow every single day. After witnessing my parents tell each other their corny jokes and showcase their weird personalities for years, I can still see how they smile the brightest and laugh the loudest when they are together. Furthermore, their 30 years of marriage and five children have been an example to me of what commitment truly means. Not only does it mean being faithful and honest at all times, but it also means putting in the time and energy to make sure that the relationship is still lively and healthy. From their Friday date nights to their teasing remarks at the dinner table, not a day goes by where I can't see the conviction of their relationship, as well as the love and joy they genuinely and wholeheartedly have for each other.

Second, I would like to thank some more great role models in my life, my brother and his new wife. Not only did they demonstrate how long distance can work (for five years), they also demonstrated that forming relationships within this hectic college atmosphere can not only work, but survive and flourish. Even with only six months of marriage under their belts, their commitment (despite the distance) and cherished values throughout time has been a constant reminder to me of what I can hope to find in my life. More importantly, watching them connect through shared values and ideas has been a constant a reminder of what I can expect in a future counterpart; I can expect to find that person who brings out the best parts of who I am and challenges me to be that best version of myself.

I can confidently say that I have been lucky to be surrounded by so many loving and lively relationships that have given me hope on what to look for in my future love life. Although I’m the only single person in my family (which my siblings love to point out), I am happy to have a community of role models to remind me of the good and joy that can be shared in these relationships to come. To all of you, I thank and love you!