Hello... Is it me you've been looking for?

Lately the discussion with my soul sisters has been around what it is I am looking for in a man, a partner, a relationship.

They asked me what my list of criterias are for, not perfect but, the ideal man for me. They were surprised when I told them I didn't really have a list, I've always had an "idea" of what I want, but never really sat down and *thought* about it.

So, today, that is exactly what I'm going to do. I am going to list down the qualities I want and need, the fundamentals and necessities of what will make me be happiest. That's the most important thing!

Intelligence. This is a deal breaker for me. If they are not intelligent, if I cannot hold a conversation with them and be able to talk about anything and everything, I cannot  bring myself to commit in any way, shape or form.

Respect. There has to be a high level of respect not just for/to me, but for themselves. If you do not respect yourself, you cannot respect others, and I do not want anything to do with someone who is disrespectful.

Physical. I crave this. I love to touch, stroke, cuddle, make some form of physical contact with people I care about. A rub on the back, holding hands, a cuddle, whatever. Physical contact speaks louder than words sometimes and I want someone who is both verbal and physical.

Acceptance. You'd think this would be a common trait in people, but it's really not. Whether people are on a different path of life, faith, circumstances or general wellbeing, there needs to be acceptance. We do not need to agree on everything, we do not need to be the same in everything, but they need to be able to accept who and what I am and love me regardless.

Love. This, above all else, is key. I want love. I want someone to look at me and think that I am the bee's knees, rock their socks, that I am a queen in their eyes. I want someone to love me for me, flaws and perfections all, me.

Some people may write a list of physical attributes, personality traits, a specific religious belief or culture and sure, these things are necessary to an extent.
If they do not hold all of the above though, I will not be with them.
I will not give them my heart, for it is a precious thing and worthy of all this and more.
I know that now.
And I will not give in for anything less.