COLUMN: An unexpectedly pleasant surprise

My most recent date reminded me how important it is to do a self-inventory in order to stay appealing in the dating world.

Last week, my editor emailed me a number and a name. She said Elizabeth was on deck to go on a date, and she did not give me any additional information.

My weekend was already shot, so I opted to wait and text her on Sunday – however, she texted me first. This was refreshing. It is “supposed” to be an era of equality, yet I never date girls who are willing to initiate contact or plan dates. Elizabeth did not just initiate the dialog, but she proposed a date. She suggested we attend “Langston Hughes, Ask your Mama: 12 Moods for Jazz” and possibly get a drink afterwards. Ideally, I would have suggested we get a drink or dinner before, but I had a test in the morning and needed time to study.

So we decided to meet at Old Main to chat a bit before the show started. This seemed as if it could be one of my greatest dates yet — it was free, convenient and culturally inspired.

I arrived early and texted my date. As I was waiting patiently, Betsey Horton walked by. As you may recall, I took a shot at Betsey in an earlier article and the themes her columns had in regards to the male population in Vermillion. To my surprise, she stopped to talk.

Actually, she informed me she was “Elizabeth.”

I have known Betsey for at least three years. It would not be a stretch to say there are many things Betsey and I do not agree on. However, many of my friends would say I surround myself with people with whom I disagree. Regardless, I had a great date with Betsey. We had a pleasant conversation before the show, and the show was amazing — although the audience had rhythm issues.

During the date, several things occurred to me. First, Betsey was dressed very well, as she usually is, and I was wearing the same jeans, t-shirt and baseball cap I wore all day. I am sure nobody minded, since I was on a tight schedule and had a test the next day, but I felt like I may not have been making enough effort, especially since we were attending a nice event.

Second, I was extremely fidgety. I generally do not like to have first dates at shows or movies alone. I think every good date should have a meal and an activity. Third, after the first hour of the show I had an urge to leave. I really needed to study for my test, and though she might not have sensed my wandering mind, I was bothered by my lack of commitment to the date.

This date reminded me the importance of self-awareness. I suspect Betsey had several motivations for going on this date, but it was a very pleasant date for me, and it reminded me that dates do not always need to be planned by the guy. Furthermore, it reminded me that while some people assume I think the sun shines out my rear end, I am aware of my many shortcomings. I wouldn’t be surprised if a large segment of women do not enjoy my particular dating style. To them, I say apply for a date with me; I only have a couple columns left, and I would like to get in as many dates as possible.

I encourage all to apply including those who do not like me, because we may yet run into more realistic dating scenarios in which I can further explore the true purpose of this column. Dating is scary, complicated and interesting, but it is something everyone goes through.