7 Stage Five: Engagement
Having prepared ourselves in the earlier stages of dating,
we gain the ability to know if we want to marry our dating
partner. We recognize our partner to be our soul mate. Not
only are we in love; we love this person so much that we want
to spend the rest of our life with him or her.
This recognition is only a glimpse. Although we are certain
that our partner is right for us, this knowledge can later be
doubted or forgotten. To make sure it is lasting, we must ac-
knowledge and commit ourselves to it. It is important to strike
while the iron is hot; otherwise, when it cools down, we may
miss the opportunity.
When we are finally able to
recognize our soul mate,
in the beginning it is only a glimpse.109