In 2011 You're Going Be Open To Love Again, Right?

The divorce is over. The papers are signed. He's out of the house and you're sitting there, alone. This New Year you've promised yourself that you're going to put yourself out there. But, how do you know if the next guy will be the one? Will it take weeks, months, or years for him to show up?

Some divorcees want their prince charming, or knight in shining-armor. Some just want a simple man. A man who works, takes care of the home, loves his children, and is spiritually grounded. Whatever you need from a man, you have to be open to receiving love when it shows up.

You have to be prepared for when he shows up. There's no use in asking for him and you're not ready when he comes. You can't start running around trying to fix your hair, dress, make-up, and attitude after he arrives. Be prepared for your man. Especially with an open heart and willingness to accept him when he shows up.

I'm telling you, I've heard lots of divorcees complain about the good guy. You know the one. The man who is extremely nice, a gentleman, loves children, practices chivalry, and is spiritually grounded. He has a good head on his shoulders and will love you like no other. However, the catch is that he is not tall enough, or dark enough, or he may be a blue-collar worker. He may be a younger than you, maybe even older. You can't seem to let go of your ex-husband.

I swear sometimes I think women only want the bad boy who has a criminal record, bad credit, emotional issues, or unable to maintain a job. It's something about fixing a man up that intrigues them. Women want to feel like they were the ones responsible for helping him see the light, get back on his feet, and turn his life around. Despite the fact he got you into debt, ruined your credit, and he caused you to have several nervous breakdowns. Didn't you learn anything from your ex?

I mean really. Do you women really think it's going to be lilies in the field, days at the park, and chilling at the beachfront all the time? Men like that only exists in the movies. Filmmakers and screenwriters create these characters as fantasy. But you think these characters are real and they start living in your head, as you are daydreaming about Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Boris Kodjoe, and Idris Elba sweeping you off your feet. Wake up and come back to earth.

If you keep looking for Mr. Do-Me-Bad-Boy, then you will miss out on a plethora of eligible men. He will show up right in front of your eyes but your blinders will prevent you from seeing what's directly in front of you.

Some women have the gall to ask for love but are not willing to accept it when it shows up. Listen up sweetie, love is knocking at your door. Open your eyes and heart.

I remember this R&B song that recording artists Babyface and Pebbles recorded together in 1990 entitled, Love Makes Things Happen. This sing epitomizes the idea of how you never know who you will fall in love with. You have no control over love.

I am telling you that you no longer have to let love slip through your fingers and out of your life. And, being divorced isn't a red scarlet hanging over you. No, not in 2011. You can have a new love, a new life, and new beginnings. It's going to take you being open and willing to be love, receive love, and share love.

Now, pick out your fabulous evening dress and shoes, and get ready to dance the night away with your new Mr. Right.

Take a page from India Aire's book when she wrote the song, "I Am Ready for Love."