My First Blind Date

I’ve never been on a blind date before. I met my husband in college and knew him well before he became more than a friend. Prior to his presence, I dabbled in dating but didn’t get a thorough run through of the scene. For this, and many other reasons, I am grateful.

I’ve always been fascinated with blind dates. I’ve had to live vicariously through friends and their blind date experiences, which I’ve soaked up like a sponge over the years. Some blind dates have been epic romance stories, which I’ve drooled over from afar, or been privileged to experience up close and personal in a role like a bridesmaid. Other stories send shivers down my spine and make me worried for humanity. Seriously, I’ve heard some horrific tales.

And even though some stories shake me, I’ve always been envious of the pre-date thrill that my friends speak of and savor. It’s the marriage of anticipatory euphoria and awkward agony that sounds like an experience to remember. Self-inflicted pain and pleasure is my thing, which is why I watch This is Us. 

So when I decided to host a local fika at my favorite bookstore, I purposely made it an ‘open to the public’ event. I hoped for my own version of a blind date, which gave me a thrill at the mere thought of it.

To be completely honest, I wouldn’t survive blind dating on the regular. I barely made it through the lead up to this event. I checked messages, stalked RSVPs, and bit every nail I have, which I know is a disgusting habit, in the days before I was scheduled to host fika. I was filled with self-doubt, deep worry, and overall anxiety.  The night of the event my stomach flipped and flopped as I drove to the venue.

Enter relief and ego boost. People showed up. Not only did people show up, but I didn’t know most of them, which meant people came on their own accord. HELLO, happiness.   I was so inspired by the conversation and grateful for the presence of people interested and invested in their process.

I honestly don’t think the ego boost is going to fade anytime soon. In fact, it’s carrying me forward to new projects and passions this week. So my advice to you is to seek out someone or something new for yourself. Risk the awkwardness. It’s worth it!