what now?

[buddyjack]

So,
I guess this isnt the most pressing question out there on these forums, but i’ve always received great advice here and so i thought why not give it a go.

I’m 18, a senior in high school, and i’ve been dating my girlfriend for a year now. We were best friends before we started dating for about 2 years and i’ve known her since grammar school (in others words we’re close). I don’t use the word love to say “i love a bag of chips” or " i love that movie" (although i will subconsciously say it now and then). Anyway, i’d like to reserve the word love to really mean what it really means - a total self gift. I had never told my girlfriend that i loved her, but over the past year i’ve come to realize that i truly do, and that she is absolutely someone i could spend the rest of my life with sharing this incredible journey. So last night we had a great conversation and suddenly i had the urge to tell her that i was in love with her. I hadn’t planned on telling her this, i even asked God “Lord do you really want me to say this” and then next thing you know without the slightest hesitation or any awkwardness, i said “I’m in love with you.”

We both couldnt believe i said it, i still dont believe i said it, she said “I think i love you too.” Which was the first time she had said anything like that before either. I know that she is always a bit behind me in expressing herself, but my question is this:

What now?

 

[1ke]

What now?

You take it slow. You are both in high school, and unless you have millionaire parents or some skill or talent that will create a livable income right out of high school you and she have several years ahead of you with college or vocational/technical training.

You may find during that time that you are called to marry each other. And, as you grow and mature you may not.

That is why taking things very slowly and prayerfully is important.

Most people do not end up marrying their “first love” or “high school sweetheart” but then some do.

 

[BamaRider]

So,
I guess this isnt the most pressing question out there on these forums, but i’ve always received great advice here and so i thought why not give it a go.

I’m 18, a senior in high school, and i’ve been dating my girlfriend for a year now. We were best friends before we started dating for about 2 years and i’ve known her since grammar school (in others words we’re close). I don’t use the word love to say “i love a bag of chips” or " i love that movie" (although i will subconsciously say it now and then). Anyway, i’d like to reserve the word love to really mean what it really means - a total self gift. I had never told my girlfriend that i loved her, but over the past year i’ve come to realize that i truly do, and that she is absolutely someone i could spend the rest of my life with sharing this incredible journey. So last night we had a great conversation and suddenly i had the urge to tell her that i was in love with her. I hadn’t planned on telling her this, i even asked God “Lord do you really want me to say this” and then next thing you know without the slightest hesitation or any awkwardness, i said “I’m in love with you.”

We both couldnt believe i said it, i still dont believe i said it, she said “I think i love you too.” Which was the first time she had said anything like that before either. I know that she is always a bit behind me in expressing herself, but my question is this:
What now?

Well, I dunno. With the cards on the table the dynamics of the relationship can change. I’m quite sure it will feel and be different for y’all, but who knows in what way.

One good thing you didn’t get the infamous “well I want you as my friend,” whenever you hear that starting heading for the door.

I was kinda like that guy in that movie. Whenever I had a female friend that was attractive, I wanted to date her :yyeess:

But that was just ME.

 

[Emily2009]

There is nothing wrong with love

Anyhow… I guess, pray, keep God first. And remember to consider her beliefs and feelings, too…

It can be a long many years ahead of you. I’m in the same boat as you right now, except, my boyfriend is even a year younger than I am… hmm…

 

[perez639]

I’m 18, a senior in high school,

Just remember, your still in high school!!

I remember it well, only 4 years ago and I think so differently these days. Allow yourself time to grow and learn!

I was one of those girls who never even went on a date in high school because I was too shy. I am thankful for it these days because I think it kept me more reserved.

 

[Angels_Unaware]

BuddyJack,

To answer your qustion, “what now?”, continue to pray and seek God’s will for your life. Ask God to spend this last year that have in high school showing you what He wants for your life, and what kind of wife He intends you to have. Maybe you will be led to propose marriage after high school. If so, you could easily be engaged for a few years before you are ready to finally marry. That’s ok.

I respect your love for your girlfriend, and I think it should be respected and taken seriously by others. You and your girlfriend are living a wonderful alternative to the irresponsible and emotionally shallow relationships that so many young people have for years and years before even considering real love and godly committment.

Whether God calls you to propose to your girlfriend sometime in the future or whether He has someone else for you, there is nothing wrong with a chaste relationship built on sincerity and friendship.