I recently hosted a sushi party where I taught some friends
how to make inside-out sushi rolls. Since I was recently in Japan, the natural
assumption was that I took a class while over there. Not true. I actually
learned from a woman I used to date, who wasn’t even Japanese.
Which got me to thinking: What else have I been exposed to
through dating that I wouldn’t have sought out on my own*?
·
Swing
Dancing. During the height of the lindy hop resurgence, a woman and I
signed up for a class that lasted longer than the relationship. While we now
dance to different tunes, I at least know a few extra moves for the dance
floor.
·
The Power of One, by Bryce Courtenay.
A woman I dated read this book religiously every year. It’s about the power one
person has to shape and influence another’s. Quite appropriate, don’t you
think?
·
Rock Climbing.
Taking a relationship to the next level can be frightening. Especially when you
can see where you’re going to land. Fortunately, this was one situation where
it didn’t hurt to be a bit … clingy**.
·
Vegetarianism.
I’ve dated several women who are vegetarians. While I still eat a fair amount
of meat, it has been beneficial to try new dishes and look at food from a new
perspective.
*Insert STD joke here: _____________________.
**You’re starting to piece together why I’m still single,
right?
