Being in a relationship = goals. Right? Sure. I'm in a good healthy relationship right now and I love it. But I firmly believe my readiness for the relationship I'm in right now was built during the season of singleness I spent before him.

We're constantly supporting, encouraging, and glorifying relationships, but we need to take more time supporting and encouraging the individual and the singleness. Because while two people can build each other up and create something real and lasting - each individuals' experiences, talents, thoughts, and understanding and appreciation of love is what contributes to the "relationship goals".

That season of singleness is a defining point in who you are as a person.

And I'm not talking about being single in high school or anything. I'm talking about that season that's followed by a breakup, or the season when you're surrounded by friends getting engaged. How you view love and men/women in that season will determine where you're at in you're life and whether or not you should open yourself up to the option of adding someone else into it.

It's easy to latch onto someone for attention, fun dates, memories, etc. but unless those relationships and memories came after a season of self-exploration, chances are it won't be as fulfilling or lasting. Find out who you are. What drives you, what irks you. What you're passionate about and how you view things happening in the world and in your daily life. Understand exactly how you work and think - and then invite someone to learn every aspect of you. Only then can you both teach each other the ins and outs of yourselves as humans.

So let's celebrate singleness and embrace those seasons in our life that demand self-exploration and appreciation. For from those seasons the most beautiful creation of ourselves will emerge.