"Freedom isn't free at all." (Spartan Queen, "300")

For almost a year, I've been trying out this whole dating thing. Actually giving out my phone number to interested applicants, returning those calls, and even holding some auditions. Though the thought of arranging to meet someone, putting effort into getting ready, and leaving the comfort of apartment to embark on an unpredictable journey with someone I don't really know all seemed to be just a waste of good nerves, I took a deep breath went anyway.

What I've learned is this: Trust your intuition. Deep down, I know what I like and what I don't like, but because I was trying to have an open mind, I sampled options that I knew I would not enjoy.

It is easy to list the reasons why it's great to be single: plenty of parties, fun flirting, and spontaneous surprises. I love these elements of the experience. However, what I don't love is the necessary evil that is dating. While I enjoy meeting new people and partaking in the traditional dinner and a movie, I do not enjoy thinking about the slim odds that my date will not make the proverbial cut.

This weekend, along with everyone else in the free world, I went to see 300. Oddly enough, the movie inspired me to take a new approach to the battle. King Leonidas's strategy of leading the Persians through a narrow pass, thus minimizing their effect made me realize that all I have to do is narrow my standards. That way, I will attract a few select applicants. There is no reason why being nice should translate into giving everyone a chance.


Only the few that make it through the narrow pass will earn the privilege to face me.

For now, I will use the remains of those who have perished in the process as mortar in my wall of standards.