On loving and being loved: another letter to my daughters

In several years working with college men and women, I have seen over and over things I hope you never have to deal with as it relates to relationships with boys (I reserve the word 'men' for a whole different category of person than you will likely bring to my home). I will instill as many of these quips and lessons along the way as you grow and learn. 

Perhaps one day you will look back on all the writings of your loving Daddy and see how much forethought I have always had for my most precious ladies. Today's lesson is:

Do not give all of yourself to any boy who has not proven in all of his actions, words, and thoughts that he loves you more than he loves himself.

Boys are selfish. Guys are selfish. Men learn to put you first in all of his actions, words, and thoughts. 

Boys will never think of you first, and they will want whatever makes them feel better in the moment.

Guys will always think of themselves first, and they will not consider how a decision involves or matters to you. They do not care how their decisions involve or affect you. 

Men realize the world does not revolve around them, and they will realize that the best leader is the one who desires to serve his wife and family like Jesus served His Church. Men know that sacrifice and service are real modes of leadership and love. 

Listen to me! Do not give all of your heart and self to any boy/guy who has not PROVEN in all of his actions, words, and thoughts that he loves you more than he loves himself. 

If you find a man who loves you more than he loves himself....well then, Bryleigh/Haddisen, that is a man who is worthy of your love for him more than you love yourself.