What’s Your Idea of Romance? (I’d Really Like to Know!)

Photo Credit: Romy Schneider

I love romance! (I better since I write it.)

I particularly adore those swoon-worthy, heart-stopping, jaw-dropping, knee-knocking kinds of moments that leave me breathless in a good way.

In our reality T.V. world where romance seems to be more about shock value than the sanctity of what God intended, it’s refreshing when books and movies get it right.

By “get it right,” I mean we don’t see the couple jump in and out of bed before marriage because it’s the popular/accepted thing to do.

We don’t see John and Lilly in a heated embrace with a dozen detailed descriptions of what’s going through their minds. (Let’s be real. We already know! Even unions founded upon Christ experience temptation. The challenge is staying Christ-focused while acknowledging the beauty of the blossoming courtship.)

Romance between our hero and heroine needn’t portray body parts and mechanics. Real romance is intimacy, yes, but more than that, it defies the physical aspect. While real romance is aware of what happens beyond the bedroom door, it recognizes, too, that chemistry is a byproduct (albeit an important one) of the deeper relationship.

As a woman, I want to know what’s going on in the couple’s hearts prior to any intimate encounters. (Yes—I realize men and women are wired differently, but this isn’t a post about that.)

Because I’m a Christian and because I’ve chosen to write Heartfelt, Homespun Fiction, my views are based upon a spiritual framework.

I realize what I like, write, or watch on television isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, just as I don’t mind telling you that I’m not into Rated R scenarios with no purpose.

I say “with no purpose” because I think we have to be careful when rubber-stamping something as “unworthy” simply because of personal taste.

What do I mean?

Well, gratuitous lifestyles and depiction of sin (with no redemptive value) are distorted viewpoints. And stories and movies that are built upon lies are contrary to God’s will for our lives. In other words, I think repentance, forgiveness, and restoration must be part of the bigger picture. Without those, the “message” is merely graphics and dialogue. No purpose. (Keep in mind, I’m referencing romance here.)

Speaking of romance, have you caught any of the made-for-T.V. Hallmark movies yet? I don’t watch much television, but I always enjoy their Christmas movies this time of year. A few of the plots seem a bit contrived and the dialogue a little cheesy, but many of the movies are very sweet, and oh so sigh-worthy.

Besides the nostalgia of Christmas, I think the stories are the biggest things that make the movies likeable. And for romance fans, happy endings are a must. (Let me add, too, that if I’ve sat through almost two hours of a movie, I don’t want the ending to be rushed. I like to see the plot unfold as the story ebbs and flows. If the producers leave only five minutes to tie up all the loose ends, I feel cheated.)

So…

What do I find romantic?

Well, for starters…

• That glance across a crowded room (yes, it works for me)

• Tokens of appreciation (think simple or handmade)

• Acts of kindness (preparing a meal, washing a dish or two)

• Chivalry (opening a door, assisting with a coat, pulling a chair out)

• The linking of hands

• The soft brush of a kiss

• Words of affirmation (“I love you,” “You’re special,” “I believe in you”)

• Terms of endearment (honey, dear, darling, princess…ahhh!)

• Sharing a sunrise

• Strolling at sunset

• Encouragement

Lest I sound like a broken record, these things are important in relationship-building. If you doubt me, guys and gals, try some of them!

I can’t wait to hear your thoughts!

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What’s your idea of romance?

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Photo Credit: Romy Schneider/Creative Commons

Blessings Always,