and the real learning starts...

Did you know it was possible to be dumped after a single date?

Yes. I think you heard me right. Dumped after a first date. The first of my dates to go quite well shifted direction after the fact, thanks to stuff that isn't mine to tell. I think, in a way, I even got a "Dear John" [Or Jane? Are there "Dear Jane" letters? I assume so.] letter out of it. My first ever.

It sure took me by surprise.

A spectacular surprise.

Wow. I was hurt and angry - cause hi, that's the usual reaction, I think - for about 5 minutes. Maybe 10. Ow. It was hilarious for another 20. Then I sat down to write a response, and what came out was... Understanding. And affection. And a profound sense of wonder at possibilities and the connections that form between people. It's like my best self sat up and wrote for me.

That? Is exactly what this project is for. It's about fear, and as it turns out, it's about love. Just not one and only one kind.

This may sound silly in the morning. It will still be true.