SERIAL DATING.

If your Facebook status is about “love,” it might receive the most number of comments and probably like’s. If your tweet is about “dating,” it could be a trending topic for the day. If a song is “romantic” inspired, it would most likely top the music hit chart. If a movie portrays a good "love story," it would probably be one of the must see’s.

I would agree, though not totally to one Philippine Star Sunday Lifestyle Relationships (March 22, 2009) article, which says, “...we’re simply a people in love with love. That goes even for those of us who aren’t in love with anyone!”

Maybe it’s one of the reasons why this article caught my attention. Another thing is that the article, which is actually titled, “How and why I stopped being a serial dater,” is written from a guy’s perspective and he talked about dating in a different; or I say more sensible way.

“I’m the last person to assume to be authoritative about romance,” he said. “The best thing I’ve done with most of my relationships is to see them end, with a fundamental reason—I was in relationships for so many years and with so many folks for all the wrong reasons.”

“The biggest mistake? Getting into a relationship just for the heck of it. Or to escape a family situation, or a family, or yourself. To escape for any reason.”

He also mentioned the importance of love and respect in a relationship. “And never expect that love and respect go hand in hand. Sometimes they don’t. I’ve loved people I didn’t respect all that much, and I’ve respected some I wasn’t in love with.”

“....Proving love and earning respect take time and patience,” he added.

He also told about “Panacea,” which the meaning I’ve found out to be a remedy for all diseases, evils, or difficulties or a cure-all.

“Another big mistake I had was using my partner as panacea for not having dealt with personal issues I should have resolved before getting into any relationship. In the Philippines, we spend a huge amount of time not dealing with our issues, whether they involve parents, siblings, or ourselves.”

Lastly, here’s his point that I like the most. “Before you fall in love—even before you think you’ve fallen—take a breather and call a shrink. We’re a people who should have a national therapy conversation. The most important relationship you should ensure is with yourself first. [I say, God first. Yourself next.] Unless you fix what is inside, no other person, no matter how wonderful he or she maybe, will be able to do it for you.”