Other Blue

My favorite color is Blue,
Yet not any shade of blue,

It resembles the color of the serene ocean on a sunny day,
Though not as deep in its display.

It’s closer to Caribbean waters,
Yet with fewer green undertones.

I’m particular about this Blue,
Exceptional and pure,
It’s my favorite and beloved hue!
Though, it’s my Blue!

Your eyes aren’t blue.
Thank goodness, for fewer reminders of you!

Yet, they are amazing.
I secretly long to see them again,
I’d look a little longer if you’d let me.

Since you’ve been gone, I feel blue;
But not like my beloved blue,
It’s more akin to navy blue.
A dark, cold, and lonely hue.

Torn on the inside, I gaze at the sky,
Where wispy clouds glide against its blue,
Drifting through an imperfect, yet tranquil hue.

I miss you.

  © WolverineLily

How to Determine if She’s Single: A Gentleman’s Guide

Imagine this: you’re at a cozy coffee shop, exchanging glances with an intriguing stranger. There is something about her—the way she smiles into her book or holds her mug— that quickens your pulse. Tempted to approach, you hesitate… There is one burning question holding you back: is she available?

Not long ago, a guy in a gym approached me with an intrusive yet direct question: “So, are you single?” Although I admired his boldness, I must admit that given our previously limited interaction, the abrupt bluntness of his question caught me off guard. At the same time, it made me wonder, “Could there have been a better, perhaps more accurate, way to approach this?” Indeed, there might be a more nuanced strategy worth considering. So, how should one investigate a girl’s relationship status in a respectful manner? Let’s delve into that.

First and foremost, asking such a personal question directly signals your interest in her. Is that truly your intention? While showing interest is perfectly fine, it’s often better to establish some level of acquaintance first. Avoid diving into personal questions too quickly; if she finds you approachable or attractive, you already have an advantage. She will be more likely to engage openly in conversation. However, if she perceives you as unappealing, if she’s shy, or simply lost in her thoughts—as I often am—a subtler approach is advisable. Start by establishing a basic connection; exchange a few sentences to ensure she doesn’t feel threatened or intimidated. If you immediately start with personal inquiries, she might think you are only after one thing. If a more meaningful relationship is what you’re after, taking the time to get to know each other—even through a brief conversation—can naturally lead to discovering shared interests and, perhaps, whether she is interested in you too.

Next, don’t assume she will truthfully answer your questions just because you asked sincerely—it’s always a gamble. Even if she is unattached, she might dodge the “are you single” question to maintain boundaries and, sadly, get rid of you! Don’t cut yourself off prematurely. Engage in a little chat, listen attentively, and observe subtle cues. Some women may casually mention their relationship status during discussions. Others like to boast about their boyfriends, signaling disinterest in other guys. Be attentive, and you might glean valuable insights about her life and preferences. Also, be cautious and don’t overwhelm her with too many personal questions. I hate that! It’s so invasive! I believe most girls would agree with me, so it’s wise to limit yourself to one or two questions per encounter.

Another scenario to consider: What if she’s in a “crappy” relationship? What if her saying, “I am not single,” doesn’t tell the whole story? She might be somewhat “tied” to someone but physically and emotionally disconnected, perhaps awaiting a way out. In that case, you, dear reader, might unwittingly become her ticket out! But be careful; you could end up being just a “rebound guy.”

Men often step back when they discover a woman is taken. I find it classy and respectful. However, let’s not assume all relationships are strong and fulfilling. Many women find themselves in relationships that aren’t harmful but are far from healthy or ideal so, it’s not always urgent to leave. See what I mean? It’s impossible to break something that’s already broken. Rather than disrupting, you could play a constructive role in a relationship that’s already unstable or dysfunctional.

Ultimately, if your feelings for a girl are genuine, why not pursue them? If your heart or gut, tells you there is something there, then why not explore it further? It may be worth the risk. Stop anticipating and chewing on your fingernails. Make a move! Girls appreciate confidence in a partner! I, for one, value assertiveness and support. Don’t give up too easily; let her get to know you. Show her your authentic self over time, and allow the connection to develop naturally. Don’t be embarrassed to show your vulnerability—it isn’t weakness; it’s a sign of humanity. Girls like to feel needed too, so let us take care of you. Let her see that you’re willing to invest in something meaningful.

I believe that a strong and healthy relationship can withstand any challenges. If a girl (or a guy for that matter) is truly committed, nothing can break that bond.

But, what if she is absolutely not interested? Then you thank her for her time and move on. Remember, you do not know her feelings and intentions until she clearly and unequivocally communicates them to you. Don’t make incorrect assumptions. Nonetheless, if she says “no,” you will still live, and you will be just fine.

In summary, if you feel compelled to ask about relationship status, do so with tact and respect for her boundaries. Rather than a blunt “Are you single?” consider a more delicate approach. You could express interest in getting to know her better and ask if she’s open to meeting up sometime. This approach not only allows for a more natural progression of the conversation but also demonstrates your genuine interest in her as a person, regardless of her relationship status.

Returning to my story, can you guess how I responded to the guy? If you get it right, I’ll buy you a coffee! 😉

Mother’s Parachute

Children are like vast parachutes,
Tethered to a mother’s back.
They tug with mighty force,
Holding her back,
Preventing her from chasing her dreams.

It’s disheartening to watch others—
Fulfilling dreams,
Finding success—
While we, as mothers,
Remain stagnant,
Silent.
Our hearts screaming within,
Ripping to break free.

Despite the relentless pullbacks,
Keep moving forward—
Step by steady step,
No matter how slow the climb.

One day, the winds will shift.
The parachute will sway,
Its once-heavy weight
Will become your wings,
Lifting you forward, upward—
Like a tornado claiming the sky.

You’ll soar higher than ever before,
Grasping dreams you once thought lost.

So don’t surrender.
Stay focused.
Let resistance guide your rise.

© 2024 WolverineLily

Would you rather be Pretty or Ugly: Unveiling Society’s Dichotomy

Have you ever come across the saying, “Pretty girls have it easier in life”?

Pretty girls seem to breeze through life, dodging traffic tickets, catching the eyes of admirers, and effortlessly securing drinks at bars. But what about the flip side? The not-so-pretty girls face a different reality. They become targets for bullies, often finding themselves disliked or disregarded. Their situation worsens if they wear glasses, opt for no makeup, or dress in unstylish clothes. Some of them shrink into themselves in the presence of pretty girls, feeling intimidated and staying quiet, hoping to blend into the background, unnoticed.

However, there’s another stereotype lurking in the shadows: the notion that pretty girls lack brains. With this stereotype, pretty girls are unfairly deemed as shallow or unintelligent. If they have blonde hair, the stereotype exacerbates, branding them as brain-dead. At work, pretty girls find themselves constantly scrutinized, as if everyone expects them to slip up. The tiniest flaw is magnified, seized upon as an opportunity to label them.

Yet, if you want a date then ask “that pretty girl.” In this scenario, going out with an attractive girl scores big. Also, Instagram favors pretty girls over intellectuals; girls in bikinis (or nude) tend to have way more followers than accomplished female scientists.

Therefore, which girl has more opportunities? Who has a better chance to meet Mr. Right? Who has it easier?

As I see it, the average person has the sweet spot. A girl must not be too pretty or too ugly because being very pretty intimidates while being too ugly repels. If you fall on either side of these extremes, you are likely – screwed!

Similarly, who has it better in school settings: the genius or the struggling student? Exceptionally smart kids and kids who struggle don’t blend in with others, and both are ideal targets for bullies because they are either too smart or not smart enough to fit in. Indeed, no matter where you are, how you look, or what industry or environment you find yourself in… the average person will fit in best because they do not “stick out.” If you are better than others in any category, you are likely discriminated against because of your exceptional abilities. This hatred is motivated by jealousy and fear. If you, however, fall behind others, then you are considered inept, unsuitable, and incompatible.

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To thrive in today’s society, one cannot stand out in any category. If one falls on either side of the spectrum, whatever it is (smart or not, rich or poor, talented or not, hardworking or lazy, etc.), then he or she will face injustice.

Finally, would you rather be fit or fat? Who has it easier in life? Boy, I can tell you that I have seen it all! Ultimately, it boils down to feeling comfortable in your own skin, whether that means being fit or not. However, as a fitness advocate, I should encourage people to get fit. Stay on the fitter side but without falling into the extreme end of fitness, and here is why. The fitter I get, the fewer people talk to me in a gym. Fitter = less approachable. Perhaps, intimidation factors in? It sure can be difficult to make friends in a gym. Talking may be mistakenly perceived as “hitting” on others. It’s a fine line to walk, especially for single individuals who actually want to meet someone. On the other hand, having fewer acquaintances in a gym means less socializing and, therefore, less distraction and more time to work out. Bottomline: if you choose to get fit, or have a specific objective in mind, then surround yourself with people who support you and your goals.

So, the question lingers: who do you think has it easier in life? Pretty or ugly, or fit or fat?

Where is Home?

I like to soak my feet in warm sand,
But I miss the soft grass.

I like the sun’s passionate kisses on my skin in the summer,
But I miss the rain.

I like to climb steep mountains,
But I miss biking on smooth rustic roads.

I’m mesmerized by a spellbound ocean,
But I miss the lake.

I yearn for feathery snow and frosty flowers on a Christmas morning window, 
But I dislike the cold.

I miss the scent of pines, rustling leaves, symphonies of the birds, and glowing campfires,
But I do not miss the fucking mosquitoes!
These vicious, blood-sucking creatures kill all the fun, yet make it unforgettable!

I miss home…
But where is home?

Home is where my heart beats in sync with yours,
In the whispers of the wind, I seek your name.

Where are you?