Is it true that a romantic relationship is not legitimately intimate unless you ask each other out verbally? One of my 8th grade classmates made this comment about my feelings towards my crush. My other question is, why would some students have this opini

It's important to recognize that different people have different views on what constitutes an intimate relationship. Some individuals believe that verbal declarations, like asking someone out, are essential to defining a relationship, while others may feel that emotional connections can exist without formal titles or actions. Your classmate Taylor may hold the belief that verbal agreements and physical dates are the only ways to establish a legitimate romantic relationship based on a more conventional or traditional understanding of dating. Many people, especially during the middle and high school years, are influenced by societal norms or peer pressure, which can skew their perceptions of what relationships should look like. In your case, you had a strong connection with Sage that may have been characterized by emotional intimacy, mutual understanding, and shared experiences, even if it didn't involve physical displays of affection or formal dates. The time you've spent together and the way you value your relationship are key indicators of intimacy that aren't solely defined by physical actions or verbal agreements. Ultimately, the validity of a relationship doesn't hinge on how others perceive it; it depends on the feelings, respect, and connection shared between both individuals. As you continue to explore what you value in a partner, it's important to trust your own feelings and experiences rather than strictly adhering to others' opinions on what a relationship should entail.