SwiftJAB wrote:> Glad to hear you've found someone that makes you feel this way. Make the most of
> this time and continue to get to know each other more. Try not to think about potential
> heartache, as that will only lead to self-preservation and not allowing you to be
> your true self with her. If the both of you want to make it work, you'll find a way.
> If it doesn't work out, remember the saying "tis better to have loved and lost than
> never love at all". This experience will teach you a lot about yourself and the type
> of person you may want to be partners with for the long haul.
>
> In general, the infatuation stage of a relationship can last up to two years as there's
> a plethora of new things to learn about each other. Not that the feeling of love
> goes away, but the constant excitement tends to fade as you both get more familiar
> with each other. Reality sets in a bit more and some of the things you weren't thinking
> about start revealing themselves. You'll move into a state of mutual affection where
> it's less about the new things and more about the active choice to love each other
> and support each other, even when someone is a bit harder to love or you're both
> going through challenges.
>
> My advice to you during this time, include her in the hobbies that you love. Jump
> into the hobbies that she loves. Talk about your religious and political views, how
> you think about money and your spending habits, and your hopes and dreams. Get to
> know how she views family, not just if she wants to have kids, but how she views
> her immediate and extended family. Give yourself time to get the information you
> need to see if the two of you have enough common ground that you can see yourself
> going through life together and really enjoying each other's company along the way.
>
>
> Too many people try to become someone else or hide a part of who they are out of
> fear of losing the person they love. Be your true self, give yourself the chance
> to be really comfortable around her and ask the same of her. If there are areas that
> you're working on growing in, continue to work on those, but don't try to sell her
> on who you're going to be. Just let her observe and support you on your journey as
> you do the same.
>
> At the end of it all, most people just want a partner that accepts them for who they
> are, will be an active participant in building a life together, and can have a lot
> of enjoyment and memories along the way.
>
>
Well said. Very practical. Alot of great advice here.