a date? its a date!

Here is the dilemma.  Dating is like the United Nations.  Everyone hopes they all want the same thing, but secretly they want to go home and speak their own language because everyone else's is weird.

Or dating is like money.  A dollar bill is almost useless in and of itself.  I don't need green paper.  But I DO need what IHOP was willing to trade for 15 of my green papers- a cup of decaf, a clean booth, some stuffed french toast and eggs and hash browns with the excellent company and conversation and laughter of my friend.

So what are the rules of money?  First, what fears are there?  With money, I am scared I will be overcharged, be around people that want to steal it, when looking for roommates what if they don't like to budget... What will happen if we go out to eat at a club and get drinks- will I have to keep up with their spending....... The list goes on.

In dating, people subconsciously wonder- does this guy just want an easy 2 week engagement so he can finally have sex and someone to do his chores he hates?  Does this girl just want someone to finally help her feel secure?  If I'm a guy- is she just going to reject me?  Shes a girl and shes beautiful, and unless your last name rhymes (that word is ridiculous to spell btw) with Fishler, you aren't beautiful like her.  If I'm a girl- is he going to abandon me once he gets over my beauty and my interesting side, and find a new challenge?  I feel stupid, what if I like them more than they like me.   I dont want to be a trophy.  I dont want to be gold dug.  What if....

Well.  Let me know if the worries work out, they haven't for me.

Instead, consider dating like a dollar.  A random, weird, human invention to bring us nearer to something we want.  Make up your road map, and consider what things need to be a part of all dating and what is just preference.  And be ready for someone else's thoughts and preconceived notions to be completely different than your own.  And enjoy the process of getting to know someone different.

Do you enjoy them?  Do you have fun?  Can you say what you think and talk through it if you disagree?  Does what they want to do in life sound interesting and exciting?  Can you compromise on differences you have?  Are you guys being yourselves?  Are you getting closer to saying you have met your best friend?  These are the questions I think I will encounter.  And be okay with not being okay or having the right answers.

So go on a date! Take a risks.  In the words of Dr. Seuss, Oh the Places you'll go!

Thanks for letting me process my fears of dating.