Let me put it this way. In the 3+ years since I started attending an orthodox church. In that time Ive actually encountered 3 women who meet the basic criteria of being 1) in their 20's, 2) Orthodox, 3) unmarried.
Thank you for taking the time to explain and share your challenge. It makes it easier to pray on your behalf.
I think you would be richly blessed (as would other Orthodox members facing the same dilemma) if you joined forces and provided support to one another. If you committed to praying and offering encouragement during this season you’d be strengthened and have more petitions going heavenward on your behalf. There is strength in numbers.
Meeting eligible women. Its a problem.
It is a problem if you expect her to walk into the church. But it isn’t if God intends to direct you both to the other elsewhere.
I would encourage you to deepen your trust and give less attention to the challenges. The more pliable you are the easier it will be to embrace His plan. She may not be an EO at present. But her love and trust in you can lead her there.
Most recently the Lord put me in an unexpected situation. He revealed a possibility I would not have chosen. My eyes were pointed elsewhere. Did I reject the suggestion and hold firm to my preferences? No!
I walked within the measure of truth He provided. It wasn’t a question of his suitability. The issue was my obedience and willingness to yield if His choice opposed my own. Because that’s an issue of faith. If I know and trust Him, His choice is always best! I reached a new level of surrender through the experience.
But I don't know how to show romantic interest, or anything like that. I kinda just make it up as I go.
Kindness, attentiveness and listening are the best ways to show you care. Dating Divas has some great ideas on their site. But keep in mind, its the little things that are usually retained.
Expression is important too. Sharing your feelings communicates openness and trust. That takes time of course. Hiding will never foster an intimate bond. Both must be willing to unveil and show their true selves to the object of their affection.
I'm "different". I don't know how to put it into words, its not something that is apparent if you met me on the street or even if you became friends with me.
I understand what you’re getting at. I don’t like to emphasize difference too much in myself. Although its evident in my posts. The danger of doing so is a separation of sorts. And when wrongly fed it can foster pride and other maladies.
I combat this by finding common ground. We all have something to teach and share. I may miss my blessing by failing to engage differences in opinion and beliefs. I can’t minister to anyone if I’m unwilling to hear them. Understanding their vantage point bridges the gap.
I don’t agree with many things I read online. But participation gives me a clearer idea of what the world is encountering outside this medium. I try to behave differently and lead with love not condemnation.
And I think if you employed a similar strategy in those situations you may unearth common bonds that escaped your notice. If you don’t understand ask them to expound.
There will be many times in marriage when you won’t understand your spouse’s perspective. What will you do in these instances? Being silent is unlikely to be well-received. This is a great opportunity to develop a better response that will be helpful to both.
