Dating-Ready for Battle

It was Sunday night. I was going on my first dinner date from a dating app—an app that had taken me a year and a half to download after my husband and I of 15 years decided we would split. 

As I walked down the parking structure stairs, I noticed a woman a few feet ahead of me who felt just as electric. She was ready for battle, dressed in perfectly tight jeans, a silky blouse and hot booties with a stiletto heel. Her magnet was so strong even I felt attracted to her and made a mental note to add bi-curious” to my dating profile. We headed the same direction and walked in sync, side-by-side like marching soldiers. 

Without much to lose, I turned my head and said, “I’m guessing you are heading to a date as well.” While I broke her steely concentration, I could feel her finally exhale and soften with relief. “Yes. You too?” 

What ensued was recognition of the vulnerability in facing the odds before us, knowing that most of us don’t make it but we keep trying, putting our best outfit forward. With immediate compliments it was as if we were old friends, even giving each other a verbal high five in the form of good wishes as we came to the corner before going in opposite directions. 

I did not see her again but I was left sensing the power of women.

I was left with a feeling that we are definitely stronger together.

I was left with a knowing that regardless of how the dates went, that this kind of backing and support is always available to us—in a romantic partner or even with another we happen to encounter on the same path.