by Dreidle Flare

Created on: February 11, 2008

Oh, those silly, outdated rules for dating. Many teenagers today have no regard for what dating really is, or what dating should be. However, the experiences a person goes through, as a teen, mold and shape that individual into the adult he or she will be. Dating is a monumental part of being a teenager, and the effects it can have on such impressionable young people can either be up building or devastating. Dating can have an impact that will stick with you for the rest of your life. So, make the most of this fun time in your life, when love and romance make you walk around with your head in the clouds, but enjoy it with caution and care. The rest of your life lies in the long road ahead. The choices you make now will determine the choices you will have to make later.

REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE AND WHOSE YOU ARE
This phrase was repeated to me more times than I care to remember when I was a teenager. It sounds like such a corny, grandmother-like thing to say, but if you think about it, it makes sense. While you're out there in the great big dating world, don't forget who you are. Don't forget the standards you have set for yourself. Don't forget the boundaries you would like not to cross. Remember the kind of person you'd like to be in the future. Put these thoughts in the front of your mind. Don't push them away if your conscience tugs at your heart. Your Christian conscience had been trained for a reason.

Secondly, don't forget Whose you are. You belong to God. Your body is a temple and should remain that way in order to be pleasing to God.

GROUP DATING &/OR CHAPERONS
I know most of you are thinking, "Chaperon!? Have you lost your mind?!". And I know, I wouldn't like to have some creepy third wheel accompanying me on a date, watching my every move either. Some Christian parents, however, will only permit dating if a qualified chaperon will be present. As an alternative to this, dating with a group of friends is a good idea. That is, as long as the group sticks together, instead of pairing off and going separate ways. This is a safer way to date, and doesn't put you in compromising situations.

BE COMMITTED
If you have made a commitment,as far as abstinence goes, to yourself, to your parents, or even in front of your church, do your utmost to live up to that commitment. Your conscience will thank you if you do. Of course, everyone makes mistakes, but be honest about those too. Forgiveness is always available to those who truly repent.

HONESTY
Be honest with your parents

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