What is Good Love?

In a good, loving relationship you will notice these things:

* You have strong caring feelings as well as physical attraction for your boyfriend or girlfriend, and you would easily agree that the word to describe this is “love”.
* You know that your boyfriend or girlfriend loves you because they have said “I love you” back.
* Your boyfriend or girlfriend makes you feel special and good about yourself.
* You trust them not to betray you or hurt your relationship. You feel safe.
* When you fight or argue, you resolve the argument without getting angry or hurting each other.
* Your boyfriend or girlfriend never asks you to choose between him/her and your loyalties to your family and friends.
* Neither of you feels the need to test each other's loyalties or feelings.
* If sex is part of your relationship, it is because you both want it and agree to it without pressure.
* When you have sex, you both enjoy it and it increases the feeling of emotional closeness and love between you.

It may take a few relationships before you find one that is healthy and happy. You may have to learn what to look out for in a boyfriend or girlfriend, and what you like and don’t like. But it is worth waiting for a relationship that is based on love, respect and mutual protection.