Value in numbers

People tend to rate themselves on a scale of 1-10 when being compared to others. I think it’s fair, especially since it helps to level out the playing field. No one wants to have relations with someone out of their league.

Personally, I think I’m a 7/10 (on a good day). Grade-wise, that’s equivalent to a B: it's a solid base, there’s room for improvement, and it’s a pretty good start.

Unlike those who think they’re a 10 but are really a 7.5, I have some shit to back it up. There’s the career, the social standing in social and creative communities, the appearance (not too horrific), the equity/investments, etc.

But, if the above statements holds true, then I haven’t dated people within my league. It’s not done on purpose. I was out of a certain someone's league; people thought he was barely a 5/10.

Then again, some people have said I’m more than a 7/10... and others think I'm less worthy of that grade. Either way, all of these numbers give me a headache. This is just too much math for me.

To be referred to

It’s always an odd feeling when someone refers to one of your posts. You never quite know it’s beneficial, or not. Sometimes they mention you in a negative way, and sometimes in a positive one.

Recently, I discovered someone used one of my posts (about being self-effacing) to make a point about their feelings on being complimented. To paraphrase myself, I don’t like it when people compliment me because I never think they’re being fully genuine (and typically want something), and that author felt similarly.

What was interested about the referral was the list of comments. They began in one way and veered off into a completely different direction. But, what was great about the discussion board was it was optimistic; a lot of opinions on a varying degree. Although very few people actually referred to my post, they were doing it indirectly and that caused – positive – interaction between people.

If only I can start a discussion on something as banal as farting in close quarters with people you have to make a good impression on, then I can sleep well tonight.

Family holidays and traditions

Even though I'm not one to admit it often, I miss my parents when they're not near. They’re getting older and I know they won’t live forever. Someday they’ll be gone, so I have to appreciate the time we spend together. This is especially apparent when it comes to the holidays.

The extended family gathers around one central location (usually at my parent’s dining room table) and eats. It’s a tradition. There is no meal, but rather a bruner (a combination of breakfast, lunch and dinner), where hours upon hours of grazing are necessitated. There is a lot of talking, eating, talking and more eating. It’s the only time in the year where everyone comes together in one place at one time.

The house comes alive and people are in good spirits, but it's only a few times a year. Although I no longer live near with them, I miss these family gatherings, especially during the holidays. But, it's probably time that I start my own traditions.

Do what they like and you’ll get what you want

Although I am not a fan of using people, there are times when you have to because shit has to get done. What do you do? You reach into your bag of tricks and use them.

Now, these tricks aren’t X-rated, but they can be considered to be manipulative. Anything from taking out the trash, to buying flowers, or doing that thing with your tongue.

It’s easy and most of the time takes no effort. You wouldn’t believe how many times I’ve had to do things I felt dirty afterwards just to watch a little bit of TV.

But, if that’s what I have to do, then I’ll do it. In a manner, it’s quid pro quo: if you do what they like, you’ll get what you want.