Believe it or not, I was young once. I remember some things about being young that were not easy; in fact, downright perplexing. I remember when I reached puberty. I didn’t understand what was happening to me. I didn’t understand all these new feelings I was having. New things popped into my mind without permission, stuff that had never been there before. I began to notice things I had never even thought of before. It was a difficult time for me. I think it must be so for most all youngsters–if they’d just admit it.

Times were about as difficult when I began dating. Confusion set in with a vengeance. Who should I date? Why did I feel an attachment to some and not to others? Why was I not as attractive to the ones who were attractive to me? Why did Johnny Green get all the looks? And why did Waydelle Hill get all the athletic ability? And why did some of the more “earthy” girls seem to have the most attraction? My head was a mess.

Decisions are hard when you’re young. I suppose I’m taking somewhat of a chance, but I want to give some advice. You can take it or leave it; but it would be wise for you to consider it–for a little while anyhow. I wish someone would have impressed these things on my mind when I was young.

Be careful about making decisions based on physical characteristics. Just became someone is good looking doesn’t mean they are good. Look for someone with character. That person will look good longer. Character lasts, looks don’t.

Be careful not to confuse lust with love. Lust is fleeting; love is lasting. Lust will deceive; love is always honorable. Lust is temporary; love endures. Lust disappears; love never does. Lust is sometimes confusing; love is easy to explain.

Be careful about moving too quickly. Many a good life has been ruined because someone made a hasty decision. Take your time. Make sure.

Be careful about promises. When someone says, “I love you,” make sure it’s so before you do anything about it. There’s more to love than a mere affirmation.

Be careful where you’re headed. A good relationship is based on common interests, common pursuits, common hopes and dreams. Most of all, it’s based on common sense. Don’t be deceived into seeing only what’s in front of you. Look out. And, above all, look up.

Be careful about priorities. Is this person interested in spiritual matters? Is this person faithful to spiritual obligations; does he/she pray? Does he/she often discuss spiritual matters? Does this person have a Bible and does it show some wear? These are important questions.

Find someone to help you go to heaven. Remember, “If you miss heaven, you’ve just missed all there is.”

—Dee Bowman