Dating in high school doesn’t have to be such a bad thing. My parents used to tell me “you’re not ready” or “you’re too young” any time I came home gushing about a guy I thought I really liked, even if I didn’t really like him. For years I listened, and then they finally said yes. I had decided to wait for someone I had no doubts about.

My first relationship lasted about a year and a half, and then he inevitably ‘broke my heart’.

Regardless of the many problems we had, I always saw him as the person I wanted to spend the rest of my life with, which was so stupid of me, because I’m sixteen and have my whole life to live. I’m young, and was under the false impression that I loved him.

Every couple will face hardships. A breakup or a fight can help you grow as an individual, and drama will pop up when you least expect it, but in the end it’s what will make you appreciate whoever you are with more.

High school relationships are not at all what are portrayed in movies. We grow up preparing ourselves for that kind of romance, and then we become disappointed when we realize Hollywood lied to us. Relationships should be meeting halfway and trying to consider what your partner may be going through at any given moment. But it could also be tons of laughter and smiles. But above all, relationships give you learning experience.

Dating can teach you to love in a way that is far different that from what you feel for your family and friends. Nobody is ever “ready” to date unless they have experience.

So, dating in high school isn’t so bad. Parents may disagree with your wishes to date, or say you’re not ready or too young, but in all honesty, what they’re saying is might be keeping you from being ready for dating. So be respectful of their wishes, but also talk to them about your opinions on high school dating if you’re looking for the experience. Who knows, maybe they’ll change their views.