What's something really important you've learned about dating?

@Mamapolo2016 Ha. What's something worthwhile waiting on the other side?

@kismet Dignity, serenity, peace, and a breakfast table all your very own.

@Mamapolo2016 Ah, you're single? What's more authentic about doing your own thing?

@kismet I was happily married (not on the first try - or the second). I had that.

I am not opposed to doing that again (although it grows more and more unlikely), but the bar is high.

More authentic? No. Wherever you are is authentic. Maybe uncomfortable, but authentic.

@Mamapolo2016 That's game-changing take on authenticity. I've heard some people jump on the phrase, "living my best life" because you only have one life to live, so it's just your life. I hear the same thing in your comment about authenticity -- you living is authentic.

How did you come to learn that?

And I'm sorry that marrying again feels unlikely for you. You seem like a really reflective and no-bull kind of person. Anyone would be lucky to be your person. (I guess that's where that high bar comes in 😉)

@kismet At some point I recognized that wherever I am and whatever I'm doing, I'm the one that took me there. Good, bad, or indifferent.

Thank you. You are kind.

@Mamapolo2016 That makes a lot of sense. I feel like it would be challenging to accept yourself at all points like that -- not to blame it on the situation or another person saying that if not for that you'd be better/all you could be. There's a lot of power and responsibility in that mindset though.

You're really nice to talk to :)

@kismet I feel the same. (About talking to you).

If you can get yourself into a mess, you can get yourself out. 😁

@Mamapolo2016 Thank you :) And those are certainly good words to live by!