A (pre)Valentine's Day post

A few thoughts once again running around in my head:

I've been watching (well listening mostly) to a couple of friends being deliberately pursued by godly men. These pursuits haven't been without bumps or questions, but with the deliberation and lots of prayer, the questions typically get answered and the bumps flattened.

I've learned the hard way of doing the pursuing on my own; even if the pursuing seemed like the only way to get the ball rolling, it was not good. It put the relationship on the wrong foot and set a tone that just wasn't sustainable.

Guys, pursue your love interests, no matter how terrified you may be. Your terror will not turn us off (in fact we'll think it's cute) but your lack of action will. Gals, let them pursue you, no matter how scared you may be or what questions you have in your mind (as long as he's not a dirty scum bag, of course. But if he's a decent and good guy, let him pursue you, even if he doesn't match the Matt Damon image you have in your head). If you let them pursue you long enough, your questions will get answered and fears allayed.

If you are single, you have as much responsibility to protect the marriages around you as the people inside those marriages. Your thoughts, actions, and words go a long way in this direction, and so does the lack thereof.

If you're married, love your spouse like it's your last day to love them. Be grateful that you have them even with the accompanying trials and irritations.

This is 1,027th time you've heard this stuff, and I do not take credit for any of the above. Sometimes I think it's just good to be reminded of something you already know. Sort of like a Christian being reminded of the Gospel message and remembering that they are a sinner, saved by Christ's dying love.