We all have preconceived notions about who the one is going to be based on what we appreciate in others. We construct the ideal mate, a Frankenstein from “best parts”, hoping that someone will come along and be the life force that animates it. I’ve let go of that approach because I don’t want to create who I’ll fall in love with – I’d rather discover it.

There’s only one must-have – my man must have INTEGRITY.

Wikipedia describes integrity as “the virtue of basing actions on an internally-consistent framework of principles…One can describe a person as having integrity to the extent that everything that the person does derives from the same core set of values.”

I believe principles/values are theoretical guidelines for our behaviour – thus everyone has some set of principles – but integrity is the resulting merit for consistently abiding by them. What principles do I deem fundamental? Those that perpetuate honesty, loyalty, self-betterment, and proactive compassion.

I have been single for six years searching for a man whose integrity will inspire me to commit. I have met brilliant, beautiful, successful individuals, but how empty are those qualities unless complemented by kindness and honour. In my lifetime, I have only met three individuals whom I could call examples of integrity. I am very blessed to have had a 3.5 year relationship with one of them.

If I have to wait another six years, I’ll be the first person to cause self-inflicted brain damage using a keyboard on Youtube. I’ve had exorbitant amounts of fun meeting new people and dating casually, but a hedonistic lifestyle is far from fulfilling, and at this age, it’s even exasperating.

I’m ready to share my incredible life with another – upon the first encounter, I hope his integrity will open the door to my heart.