I'm making a list and checking it twice. It's all the specific traits I want in a man, and I'd like to get him as a boyfriend for Christmas.

Or not.

You see, I've been there. I've had the list of standards for the man I'd like to spend the rest of my life with. But, I think sometimes we rely too much on those lists. I wrote a list in high school of 101 things I wanted in a guy. I revised and edited the list several times as I got older and my perspectives and tastes changed. But, I don't have the list anymore.

I've realized that no matter how thoroughly we plan out specific traits in our future significant other, chemistry still happens. And the person you end up with, could very well be missing a few of those things on your list. Or you could meet someone with all of those traits, all of those things you wanted, but there's one small problem: you aren't attracted to them in the slightest.

Now, don't get me wrong, I think that it takes more than attraction to build a solid relationship and having standards is a good thing. But, if I don't end up with a 6 foot 5 inch man who likes sports and cars, it's not going to be the end of the world. Because, in the end, those aren't the things that matter. But, there are a few things that do matter.

His heart.

Even if he seems pretty nice at first or he's good with all the smooth compliments, that won't reveal what is truly important. Is his heart focused on material things? Is his heart tangled up in multiple romances? Or does he have a heart for God and a dedication to you? Those are important things.

How he treats animals.

I know this seems overused and overrated. But, if he doesn't like animals, he can still choose kind ways to deal with it. If he chooses to kick the dog or purposely step on the cat's tail, there might be some issues there.

If he loves Jesus.

This is reflected through what he pours his heart into. And it's very, VERY different than just showing up for church. Any guy can show up to church and be polite to your parents, I need someone who really and truly loves Jesus.

So, maybe this is still sort of a list, and let's be real, I'm not expecting a boyfriend for Christmas. But, the point is there. Don't focus on the things that don't matter, because the right person will make you realize how truly insignificant those things are.