Alone?

At 25, not being married or in a serious relationship like a lot of other people my age does bother me every once in a while. On the other hand, much of the time I'm fine with it [and I'm not just saying that!] It hits me most when I run into people who act like they don't understand why I'm alone, not married, and without a boyfriend. I feel this sudden pressure to conform, and my worrying starts: "Am I normal? Shouldn't I be in a relationship? I hope they don't think I'm not interested in having one..."

Spending lots of time outside of a Christian bubble has made me realize that most peoples' idea of dating/finding a life partner is HUGELY different than mine. And when I start talking to them about my ideas, I'm actually speaking a foreign language. They kind of scratch their heads and say, "Well dear, I guess you'll be alone for a good while..." This makes me feel pretty discouraged. Because it's not easy to be patient, to hold out for what you know God has for your life. And there is that honest fear of ending up alone.

Unfortunately, a lot of people are not "dating options" for me. Even I'm interested, even if they are too. Believe me, I've told God how frustrating this is! I know what God has for my life, and it's someone who's desire is to serve Him. Someone who's life has been given over to Christ. The kind of person who also thinks, "I know what God has for my life, and it's a woman who's desire is to serve Him. A woman who's life has been given over to Christ."

As I look back, I realize that college abounded with these kind of guys. But, now? Not so much. I don't run into them very often. Trusting God's master plan is made real. But let's not be too cliche, it's neither simple nor easy.