Love.
I have always considered myself a romantic. I believe in soulmates. I believe in love at first sight. I believe in true love overcoming all odds and obstacles. Etc, etc....more mushy crap.
Let's get to the point.
We don't live in the movies. When I lock eyes with a guy from across the room, time doesn't stand still while we gaze deeply into each other's souls. It's just dang awkward. When a handsome stranger knocks into me in the hallway or supermarket and I drop my stuff, he doesn't help me pick it up and then get my number. I just mutter, "I meant to do that" under my breath as he avoids eye contact and walks away (I then usually stand up and kick at the air in his general direction). I have never suddenly discovered that I'm in love with my best friend (she will be relieved to read that considering she's a female) nor realized that there truly is a fine line between love and hate and fallen for someone I have never seen eye-to-eye with (Otherwise I may be courting Glenn Beck).
That wasn't actually to the point; let's try again...
Can I really consider myself a romantic? We are talking about the girl that shook hands at the door on her first date and responded with "thanks" the first time a guy used the "L" word. Is it even possible to be romantic in Provo? Provo, a mystical land where girls are asked on dates via Oreos on cars and secret balloon messages in doorways (Yes, I watched the "The Singles Ward" last night.) Provo, the place where girls come to get their MRS instead of their BA or BS (I just have to say how wonderful I think it is that I have a BS in BS...very classy.) Provo, the home of ward menus, shameless, non-discriminatory flirting and a general lack of self-respect (I know it's harsh, but let's be realistic).
I guess it all depends on how you define romance.
Is it romantic to receive flowers? For some, maybe. Personally, I always have a strange sense of foreboding about the relationship when I look at those flowers lying dead in the vase a week later (or two days later if your roommate pours Windex into the vase). Is it romantic to receive chocolate? It's delicious, but not necessarily romantic. I am not saying these are bad things! Flowers and chocolates are fantastic (and recommended if you slip and call me "woman" at some point). However, they do not register as "romantic" on my scale.
So what is romance?
Thanks for asking. Romance is when you get a little note or text reminding you that you are being thought of. Romance is an acknowledgment of your pain, even when you thought you were hiding it so well. Romance is remembering the little things. Romance is a hug from behind while you're doing the dishes. Romance is not a lone, grand gesture; it's a multitude of little reminders that you are loved, remembered and wanted.
So am I a romantic? You decide.
"Jump and the net will appear” -Jason Mraz
