Dear Phoebe: When do you give a promise ring?
January 9, 2019
The definition of a promise ring is “A pre-engagement ring, also known as a friendship ring or promise ring, is a ring given as a gift to a romantic partner to signify a commitment to a monogamous relationship, often as a precursor to an engagement ring.” This ring is not to be given to someone you just start dating. It is a promise ring stating you intend to marry this person. Yes, things may happen, but the rings are not to be taken lightly.
Many people in high school get excited when they get in a relationship. Young love is the type of love where falling in love comes quick, but if things end badly, then the hurt from the break up is one of the worst things someone can experience. When someone falls in love they tend to be optimistic about the relationship. Immediately couples start talking about marriage and spending the rest of their lives together. Only two percent of high school sweethearts get married.
Do not rush giving your significant other a promise ring. Try being together for at least a year to two years before thinking about taking that step. It may not seem serious being in high school, but in reality it is very serious. It is the ring given before an engagement ring. It is a promise to stay with that person through thick and thin. To always love and cherish that person. In high school it is hard to keep those promises.
If the time is right, ask the father for permission to give a promise ring to the significant other. Doing so shows respect to the parents, and shows intentions of what is to be. Keep in mind this ring has so much meaning. It is not just a ring, but it is a promise to put another ring on the ring finger at a later time. Do not feel as though a ring must be given just because a relationship has lasted for a few years. Do it when the time is right. There is no rush to make a promise so big until it is time.