Well...It was a matter of time...

So, my daughter gives me the heads up that a young boy is interested in taking her out on a date. Being the good daughter she is she informs the young lad that he needs to come to my home and chat with me. So..he does. The talk went well but here are some highlights of the conversation. If anyone has any questions or comments please let me know.

* The Treasure Chest - I used this example when talking to the young man. If you had a treasure chest worth million of dollars inside would you let just "anyone" hold it or keep it? Of course not. I explained to him that Vanessa is a treasure chest and it's my job to protect that treasure until she gets married.

* Are you a Godly man...or a man who believes in God? - Last year Vanessa wrote a top ten list for the things she is looking for in a husband. Her #1 thing listed was a Godly man. So as I spoke to him I let him know believing in God isn't enough...even the demons believe in God. That he had to be a believer and follow of Christ. That all the items on the list wouldnt matter if #1 wasnt met. Furthermore, the person who would be in Vanessa's life needed to be a person who treated her with a level of respect that God would be proud of and also expect from a young man.

* We're not the average family - I don't accept what "everybody" else does...nor do I really care. My standards are high and I let him know that. In fact I told him that my rules are different than anyone else he has probably dated....he agreed :)

• First, my wife and I need to know him before she goes out on a "date". So we invited him to come over..visit with the family..and get to know us. This process could take however long we deem it to be. My wife and I don't see dating as something that should be taken so casually. When emotions become invested into someone else then the whole famly becomes involved.
• When the day comes when he's allowed to go out with her it won't be one on one. It'll be in a group setting with other friends. (He has a look of bewilderment during this time but oh well LOL)
• The one on one date.

* Sex is.. - I'm sure I'll have a bunch of people who may disagree with me on this but...I dont care :) I let the young lad know that no matter what...sex is left for marriage. If this wasnt acceptable to him then he should find another hen house. Period.

* Honor and Respect - I made it clear. Honor my wife and treat her well when you visit. Respect me by obeying my rules.

So....school is in session....