I am a huge believer in everything happening for a reason, even if I have no idea what that reason is in the moment.

Most of the time it takes a while for me to even figure out what that reason is, but in all cases, God lays them on my heart when I need to hear them most.

Throughout the past two or so years, I have dated around, and even though I haven't loved anyone, I thought this title seemed pretty fitting. I've enjoyed every single dating experience I've had because each and every one of them has taught me about who I want to be as a woman, Christian, girlfriend, and friend.

I've been hurt, and I've hurt others; I think that's all part of the process of dating. There have been people I've seen a future with, and people I haven't. There have been people who reciprocated these ideas, and people who haven't exactly been in the same boat as me. And that's okay.

So to all the boys I've (dated) before, thank you for teaching me that dating and relationships are a two-way street. We both have to put in the effort to make it successful.

Thank you for teaching me that I should not be your primary focus, God should. With this, thank you for helping me grow closer to the Lord, and for helping me believe that He has a man for me.

Thank you for teaching me that relationships are not just physical, they are emotional, mental, and spiritual too. However, I believe you need all four of these traits for one to even survive.

Thank you for showing me southern hospitality. Holding the door open, paying for dinner, and giving me your jacket when it's cold have all had an impact on what I look for in a man.

Lastly, thank you for being a part of this amazing/crazy/eventful journey called my life. Even if we didn't end in the best circumstances, thank you for teaching me the lesson you did.

I wouldn't be the person I am today without you.