Have you ever known a person of the opposite sex and said to yourself, "Wow, we would be perfect together?" For some reason, everything about you two go together. You hang out with the same people, you go to the same school, your Instagrams are both super artsy, you both love the same music. Your checklists just click.
I remember a scenario similar to this. This guy in my life and I spent a good amount of time together and really enjoyed each other's company. He was everything on my checklist, and I was everything on his ... so we were like, "Why aren't we dating?!" (Thank you, American culture.)
After going on several dates, we quickly realized there was some disconnect. We couldn't put our finger on it, though. He was awesome. I was (am) awesome. What was missing?
Finally, after another super awkward date, he said something to me I'll never forget. He said, "Why can two people be really good people, but not good for each other?"
You might be thinking, "Well Meg, was he not a Christian? Was he disrespectful? Did he play games?"
The answer ... no. Quite the opposite, actually. He's an awesome man. Loves God, always respectful and enjoyed many of the same things as I do. But just because he's not the man for me, doesn't mean he couldn't be the greatest guy for someone else.
So why does this happen? Why can someone be a really amazing person inside and out and not be a great person for me?
Honestly, it can't be explained. Call it a chemical, a potion, a dash of grace or just being at the right place at the right time. Whatever it is, it is beyond our understanding and works outside of our control.
So, instead of talking about what we can do to fix and change ourselves into what the "perfect" person would be more attracted to, let's talk about what to look for when the special someone does come along.
1. Are You Happy Or Stressed?
It's very simple in the beginning ... have fun!
A girl came to me a few months ago and explained to me how she and her boyfriend were constantly breaking up because they thought their marriage would fail ... they were dating for three months.
People, again I say it, just have fun! Laugh, go spend time together, talk about your favorite things.
Are you having fun or are you constantly feeling pressure and stress from this person?
Not only will it be fun, it will be natural. It might take a few dates to get the awkward jitters out, but regardless, you will love their company.
2. Are You Loving Them or Changing Them?
I hear way too many girls saying, "Well, he's great, but there's a few things I could change." If you find yourself changing their quirks more than loving them, maybe this isn't the best person for you.
We want to be loved for who we are, all quirks included. If you're constantly finding things about them that annoy you, I promise there's a person out there who will love them.
3. Making You Better, Or Worse?
After a while, you will get a good sense of what kind of person they are. Does their character inspire you to go above and beyond yourself? They will change you, but it will be for the better.
Do they inspire you to be a little healthier or maybe eat that extra cookie to celebrate your workout? Maybe they inspire you to go to class more, study a little harder, spend more time with Jesus or just be a little more crazy!
But maybe, like me, you think you're pretty perfect. You have the perfect schedule, the most committed prayer life and awesome grades. Why would you need a guy, right?
Well, that person could make you even better. They will make you take time to enjoy life instead of making sure it's perfect. They will inspire you to trust more and worry less. They will even point how I need to grow in compassion instead of judging others for being less "perfect." There's always room to grow.
So, just because two people are great people, doesn't always mean they are great for each other. But when the right person does come along, know that it won't be something you have to force. If love is forced, is it really love?
Love is a great gift. It brings joy and life, not stress and worry.
And, again I say it, don't worry! If the "perfect" person doesn't seem so perfect for you, they will be great for someone else.





















