Who I [would] date

Black Friday. Getting up early for Christmas present shopping and 1/2 price socks at Fred Meyer. ok, let's be honest, I only get up for the socks. This morning, I ventured out with my mom and we visited 4 stores in 2 hours. Pretty speedy, especially since we found Uncle Dan & Aunt Kate in Fred Meyer & chatted. I supposed you're wondering "what does shopping have to do with dating?"  So it's a bit of a stretch... but it often seems like Black Friday is about toys. Toys are most often for children. Children are supposed to come after marrying a nice young man. And marrying a nice young man requires dating.

My childhood imagination figured by the time I was 33, I would be married and have 3 kids, a cat, & white picket fence. In real life, I just have the cat. She is a nice little companion but a "meow" is not quite the same as a "hello." A snuggle from her is often a hint that she wants food usually followed by a "lecture" when it has not been provided fast enough!

The "perfect" man is not possible, unless you're "Peter Perfect - The Wind-up Toy." So I'll settle for a man who is God's best for my life. Through my dating experiences, I've mainly learned about who is NOT God's best. Of course, each of them had elements of perfection, but not all the pieces.

First, he must love God above all else. There is no substitute and without this element not worth consideration. Second, he must be someone I respect. It wouldn't be fair to him to have it any other way. Third, he must have a heart willing to work to provide for a family. I've never wished for a career other than motherhood and need someone able to support this dream. Please understand this is a two way street of provision - funds vs. nurture - both are vitally important. Fourth, our life goals must be in sync and heading in the same direction. Fifth, both need to be willing to sacrifice their own desires for the good of the whole. Unless each is willing to compromise, life's trials will be greatly increased.

These five things are just a small portion of what I visualize. Yet, over the years, my experiences have changed my perspective, and new-found perspective has changed my expectations. However, my hope for a joy (and yes, sorrow) filled future has remained the same. So I will wait patiently, quietly eagerly for God's best.