I've Got a Little List

This week, I've been thinking more about the ol' lists of "Can't Stands" and "Must-Haves" that husband-seekers are supposed to have in their mind to separate the wheat from the chaff. I just checked my old lists and the Can't Stands seemed too cruel ("poor hygiene" was at the top of the list), so rather than write up new caveats, I'll just proffer the latest, streamlined list of Must Haves. On the face of it, they're kind of dull—just the thinnest pencil outline of Mr. Right—but they represent qualities that I have been unable to find so far in any meaningful combination:

1. Strong, active, and hungry Christian faith.

2. A strong sense of vocation in his chosen career, taking pride in what he does.

3. A creative hobby or interest.

4. A love of books—reading them, not just hoarding them (though what's a little hoarding between friends).

5. Traditional moral values, including a deep understanding of and respect for the institution of marriage.

6. A sharp wit, with both the ability to make me laugh—and to laugh at my jokes as well.

7. A strong love of music—the older, the better.

8. The ability to happily go for days, if not weeks, without watching television.

9. The desire to be faithful to one woman for the rest of his life.

10. A heart for giving of his money or abilities for charity.

COMMENTS Michael Bates observes something I hadn't noticed: "I clicked on the title of your post about the qualities you're looking for in a husband, and here's the first line I read: 'As someday it may happen that a victim must be found....'"

Jeff Geerling writes: "My sister seems to have practically the same dilemma as you. She's found plenty of 'Mr. Rights'—problem is, they are all guys who end up being priests! D'oh!"

He just had to rub it in. Need I add that Jeff is a Roman Catholic seminarian?
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