ten years ago
While unpacking some boxes I discovered a diary I had early in high school. I didn't read much of it yet, but I did find a list of traits I wanted in a boyfriend back in 1998. In no particular order:
Strong shoulders & arms
Nice smile
Can sing but not all the time
Plays an instrument (esp. piano & guitar)
Loves children
Open-minded
Prefers winter to summer
Likes theater
Likes movies
Sense of humor but not too much
Gives compliments but not too many
Willing to try new things
Satisfied with simple things sometimes
Willing to face and solve problems
Able to lose/surrender an argument
Appreciate little things about me
Remembers little things about me
Gives personalized gifts (not flowers/chocolate)
Doesn't mind snuggling
Shares or lets me have remote
Honest about everything important
Doesn't take things personally
Thinks I'm funny but shares laughter
Romantic
Smart, but not too smart
Non-smoker/drinker
Thinks of others before himself
Finds beauty on the inside
Faithful no matter what
When I first realized what the list was, I expected to laugh at my younger, more naïve self. I've pretty much considered myself a completely different person since high school, and I've never looked back. But I was surprised to find that most of these desires still hold true. The petty wishes have changed; I no longer find singing attractive, and I don't give a shit what season he prefers or if he likes theater. But being able to solve problems, avoid arguments, be honest and faithful, and to have a sense of humor (but not too much!) are all wise, important traits that I'm still looking for.
Strong shoulders & arms
Nice smile
Can sing but not all the time
Plays an instrument (esp. piano & guitar)
Loves children
Open-minded
Prefers winter to summer
Likes theater
Likes movies
Sense of humor but not too much
Gives compliments but not too many
Willing to try new things
Satisfied with simple things sometimes
Willing to face and solve problems
Able to lose/surrender an argument
Appreciate little things about me
Remembers little things about me
Gives personalized gifts (not flowers/chocolate)
Doesn't mind snuggling
Shares or lets me have remote
Honest about everything important
Doesn't take things personally
Thinks I'm funny but shares laughter
Romantic
Smart, but not too smart
Non-smoker/drinker
Thinks of others before himself
Finds beauty on the inside
Faithful no matter what
When I first realized what the list was, I expected to laugh at my younger, more naïve self. I've pretty much considered myself a completely different person since high school, and I've never looked back. But I was surprised to find that most of these desires still hold true. The petty wishes have changed; I no longer find singing attractive, and I don't give a shit what season he prefers or if he likes theater. But being able to solve problems, avoid arguments, be honest and faithful, and to have a sense of humor (but not too much!) are all wise, important traits that I'm still looking for.