A Personal Blog for My Boys

It's fun to watch my boys grow up.  They are starting to face things that every young man must face in his journey into manhood.  Spencer is getting his own place next week and attempting life on his own for the first time off campus.  He is also making decisions about his life now that will affect the rest of his life, some in big ways and some in small ways.  Josh is going into his senior year of high school and will soon be making decisions about what school to run for and what he wants to major in. 

And then there is the dating scene.  I think Josh really likes a certain special some one.  They spend so much time together just talking, and laughing, and doing simple things like going to Chik-Fil-A.  He seems to really enjoy just being around her.  I remember that stage when dating Dena.  It was great.  But nothing replaces spending time together over a long period of time and letting someone you love actually become a part of you.

So as the boys start to date and get into more serious relationships in the future, I want to give them some guidelines to follow, even though I failed at all of these things many times over.

1. Follow God's principles of love.  They are impossible to achieve, but no example could ever be better of how we should love others.
2. Let her know she matters.  Surprise her with small things and big things.  Show her and tell her you care often.  Talk to her even when you don't want to.  Brag about her in public.
3. Be consistent in your attitude and behavior.  Don't flip out and/or disappear.  Be on time.  Always follow through.
4. Be honest and straightforward but sensitive.  Even when it's hard to do.  It will prevent alot of heartache in the future.
5. Pursue her.  Plan dates.  Be spontaneous.  Do big things and small.
6. Be the man.  Sounds simple, but sometimes it is not.  Lead.  Say "No" when you should.  Don't blame it on her.  Be honorable.  Treat her like you would want your own daughter to be treated.

Dating is a process that you should enjoy.  If it is difficult, you are dating the wrong person.  Figure out what you like in a mate and what you don't.  Make a list of what you think the perfect woman would be and then try to date people that most closely fit that list. 

And dont forget to have fun.