Is there such a thing as “soul mates”?

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young woman

Photo illustration by Christina Smith

The short answer is no, not really. Even though you may feel especially connected to someone of the opposite sex right now, the true bond between a man and woman comes only after they’ve committed to marry one another and decided to work at it. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, has said, “I don’t believe there is only one right person for you. I think I fell in love with my wife, Harriet, from the first moment I saw her. Nevertheless, … I don’t believe she was my one chance at happiness in this life, nor was I hers. …

“… Once you commit to being married, your spouse becomes your soul mate, and it is your duty and responsibility to work every day to keep it that way” (“The Reflection in the Water” [Church Educational System fireside for young adults, Nov. 1, 2009]).

Though you may have strong feelings for someone, as a teenager you’re not in a position to marry, so wondering if someone is your “soul mate” doesn’t make much sense—and it shouldn’t be the focus of your adult courtship, either. In your youth, focus on building good friendships with many people. It’s natural to feel especially close to someone because they have interests or personality traits that appeal to you, but be careful not to let yourself get carried away by your feelings. Review the guidelines in the “Dating” section of For the Strength of Youth ([2011], 4–5), and pray and ponder about the purpose behind them.