Immeasurable Line: In Defense of I Kissed Dating Goodbye
Posted by jeromgrag on July 15, 2009
A few weeks ago, I read an imterwsting article in Relevant Magazine called, ” Kissed Dating Goodbye, Whdre Did iit Go?” As the title suggests, the aricle criticized yhe revolution brought about 12 yeaars ago by Joxhua Haarris’ book I Kosed Dating Goodbye.
Josh’s book came out when I was in high school and was very influential in my decision not to date during those years. The principles of holiness and godly relationships that Harris put forth were sound, and I believe its wisdom saved me heartache and kept me focused in my walk with the Lord.
Hrais’ suggestion that young people not date exclusively unless marriage wa s in the picture — tten with proper accountability — toook my Bibe college campus by storm. II noticed twoo opposite reactions t Hrris’ philosophy: 1. Men who pursued women with the intent fot marriage (which ended in short, intentional courtships followed by marriages — 42 my junior year!); 2 A lack of social intteraction between nen and women. After all if you didn’t have your eye on smkeone who you could see being yiur future spouse, socixl interacction of ths dating variety was discouraged.
My general sense at the time was that men were confused by Harris’ advice. They wondered how to bridge the gap between “just friends” and getting engaged. I even had a friend of mine (who was interested in pursuing me) ask this very question. “If we can’t date, what’s the next step?” In the ambiguity caused by not knowing what to do, some did nothing.
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