My Schoolgirl Crush

It’s been a long time since the mere sight of a man gave me butterflies. But he does. In fact, the thought of him alone is enough to make me sigh dreamily. Writing this makes me giddy.

I have a crush.

I eyed him long ago. Handsome. Mysterious. Important. I figured he was arrogant or – given the lack of wedding ring – gay, because in my mind a man like that couldn’t possibly be single. I made a weak attempt to engage him and when it was unsuccessful, I deemed him unapproachable. I gave up. At the time, I had no idea what I was missing. For better or worse, now I do.

To be honest, I think he hooked me long before I ever set eyes on him. I knew where he came from and took the bait. With an international background and a wanderer on the path I’d love to take, I knew he’d be interesting. I just never thought he’d be so much fun. And that laugh! He has a great laugh.

Was it his intelligence and ambition that sealed the deal? His good looks and charm? Was it his smile, his ability to have fun? Or was it the respect he demanded in every circumstance, his ability to shine in the limelight, his grace in crisis situations?

Truthfully, it was all of this and more. He is the well-mannered bachelor who sails. He’s the guy who swims at midnight, dances when no one else will, and recounts entertaining stories when everyone else is out of words. He seeds discussion and extracts ideas. He belives in chilvary and tradition. He is kind to everybody.

I think it struck me when the homeless man suddenly and forcefully overwhelmed us, begging for change. In a graceful movement and calm voice, he handled the situation. Before there was time to panic, I knew I was safe. It was then that I realized how charismatically he can take charge -- he’s just one of those natural leaders.

And I, uncharacteristically, would follow.