Troubles with dating? Maybe I'm in the minority that was spoken of in yesterday's "Inside Column," but I am in a long-term, long-distance relationship and trouble is not a word that comes to mind in describing it. Challenging — yes, hard — sometimes fun — definitely rewarding and worthwhile — without a doubt.

I see college as the most opportune time to build lasting friendships and romantic relationships. When else in your life will you be surrounded by people with whom you share so many similarities?

Yes, we are all changing, but this will not end when we graduate from Notre Dame. We change throughout our lives and it is the people we love that help us when we need it and love us through good times and bad.

Anything we do could be viewed as a waste of time, depending on who you ask. If you ask me, dating and finding that one special person is anything but. By sharing in a loving relationship, you are allowing yourself to be vulnerable, trusting, faithful but most of all, happy.

I realize not everyone is looking to fall in love during their four years at Notre Dame, but don't shy away from it or deliberately close a door in your heart. Instead, smile on your way to class, be friendly, and oh yeah, get your work done. But amidst it all, cultivate relationships with God, family, friends and that special someone.

I promise, after your four years here, it will be these relationships that have the greatest and most last affect on your life.

Angela Chiappetta

sophomore

Lewis Hall

Nov. 14, 2000

• Untangling the political mess
  
• Quote of the Day
  
• Feeding our faces with greed
  
• Dating happens under the Dome
  
• Go Palestine!