We’ve all heard the saying that the right person will come into our lives when we least expect it and when we are not searching for that person.

For years, I have heard this and I never believed it. I was always on the hunt for a boyfriend, and I took whatever I could get it.

I dove into relationships without even considering the reality of it, and I always either got hurt or it just simply did not work out.

Back in August, when I returned to Eastern for this semester, I met someone.

He and I connected in a way that I never have with anyone else, and as much as I wear my heart on my sleeve, I was scared.

I had had so many bad experiences with relationships, and I was not ready to be hurt again. Also, I think because this is the first time this has really happened since I got clean and sober, I have a pretty clear mind and I knew that it was necessary to take things slow.

For the last three months, that is what we have done. And I have to say, I am glad we did.

Here it is three months later, and now he is my boyfriend. I have to admit I was terrified to give someone that title, but I can’t think of anyone else who deserves it more than him.

He has been my rock, my shoulder to lean on and he treats me like a king.

Most importantly, he respects my recovery and knows that it comes first in all aspects of my life.

He genuinely cares about me, and I know I’ve said that about so many other guys I’ve been with, but this is much different than anything else I’ve ever experienced.

He puts me before himself, and although he does not have to do that and should not do that, he just cares about me so much and wants me to be happy.

I hope that what we have lasts, and I have a feeling that it will, but I have learned that we have no guarantee of things in life.

As of right now, I am enjoying the time I have with him and getting to know him.

I do truly care about him and I want to see our relationship progress. I can only hope that it will.

Several people have concerns about me getting into a relationship and with him specifically, and I respect everyone’s concerns, but I truly feel in my heart and my soul that this is right and I know that I am doing the right thing by being with him.

Andrew Paisley is a senior journalism major. He can be reached at 581-2812 or at abpaisley@eiu.edu.