Response #8

1. For those of our members who aren't currently dating anyone exclusively, what do you think the top 2 or 3 things people should do to MEET someone who has the potential to be a future spouse (or alternatively recognize potential in people they've already met)

--SERVE (you learn to love those you serve, and they learn to love you too!)

--along with serving, live a full life (people who are just "waiting" aren't as interesting to be with as those who are really living their lives...single adults have SO much opportunity to make a difference in the world. Although it might feel like it will never end now, hopefully, some day this time period will seem very short...make the most of it).

--become the person you would want your future spouse to marry (develop the characteristics you hope he has...maybe taking that family finance class will be where you'll meet him??)

--don't waste time deciding for someone else if they would be interested in you (i.e. "He'd never date someone like me..." Let him get to know you so he can decide for himself! You might be surprised!)

2. And once two people are dating each other, what are the 2 or 3 things dating couples should do that will make it most likely they will end up getting married (assuming of course they're a good fit for each other - if a terrible fit I guess the question would be what are the things they should do to realize they're a bad fit?)

--that person doesn't have to meet all the criteria on your "list," but they should be someone who makes you want to be a better person and makes you happier

--attend the temple together often

--receive revelation that you should get married, and then don't get caught up in the details (If I'd been more aware of some of the worldly "details," I might have missed out on the love of my life!)

Good luck! We're so grateful we were able to meet each other in the Winder 19th ward. We've now been married 2 1/2 years and are having a blast. We have a precious 8 month old that continues to bring joy (and adventures) to our lives. Best wishes to all of you!