Q&A

Where I live there are very few people I could date who have my standards. What should I do?

ice cream cones

Don’t feel pressure to date, especially one-on-one, and especially if there aren’t people around you “who have high moral standards and in whose company you can maintain your standards” (For the Strength of Youth [2011], 4). Dating is just one way to get to know members of the opposite sex. You can look for healthy, wholesome ways to make friends who will help you maintain high moral standards.

Are They Respectful of My Standards?

I live in an area where there are few youth members of the Church, so when I do choose to date those who do not share my beliefs, I take time beforehand to consider how respectful they would be of my standards. Dating can be a great experience to share values with a nonmember, but you may want to ask yourself: Is this person respectful enough of me to support my standards while on a date?

Emily N., 17, Colorado, USA

Get to Know Different People

I live in an area where there are not a lot of people who share my standards. So, instead of going onlots of dates, I just try to get to know a lot of different people and be friendly to everyone I meet.

Katherine K., 17, Illinois, USA

Group Date

In high school, the purpose of dating is to get to know people and have fun. There are a lot of good people out there who are not members of the Church but still have high moral standards of their own and will support you in keeping yours. When going on dates with them, clearly define what the date will be and go with a group so you do not get into a bad situation. Some good activities include having a game night, going rock climbing or hiking, and cooking a meal together.

Luke B., 15, Oregon, USA

Don’t Rush into Dating

It is better to wait to date than to date people who would have a bad influence on you. If a good opportunity comes up, then that’s great! There is no need to rush into dating. In the meantime, make good friends and follow worthwhile goals. Not only is having goals attractive, but it will also help you be happy while waiting (which is also attractive).

Megan J., 21, Utah, USA

Follow the Standards

Follow the standards in For the Strength of Youth. They are not just suggestions we follow some of the time; they are there to protect us. God gives us rules because He loves us and asks that we follow them.

Keeli S., 16, Washington, USA

Responses are intended for help and perspective, not as official pronouncements of Church doctrine.

Tell Us What You Think:

“How can my patriarchal blessing help me make decisions?”

Send your answer and photo by June 15, 2018.

Go to newera.lds.org, and click “Submit Your Work.” Sign in with your LDS Account and then select “New Era” under “Choose Magazine.” Click “Add File” to select your file and photos, and then click “Submit” to upload and send us your file.