Dear Harlan,

Not feeling very positive about the state of affairs concerning dating, having been through several difficult relationships and having tried the online services only to be disappointed time and time again, I had decided to just give it up for a while. One night, while out visiting a friend and listening to some live music, I was introduced to the guitar player. His smile and his eyes sparked something in me, but we said goodnight and went our own ways. I could not forget that smile, so I looked him up on the Internet, found his Web site with a "contact" link and sent him a message. He got the message and responded with a list of places he'd be playing next. So, I bucked myself up and went to see him play. After the gig, we started talking and hit it off.

A few days later, I took the toughest step of my life: I asked him out. He said "yes!" We're only three dates into this, but it's been the most fun I've had in a long time, and the prospect for the future is very positive. I would never have found myself dating this guy if I hadn't been reading your R.A.W. entries and decided that it was worth stepping out and taking a risk. Thank you so much, Harlan!

D in Texas

 

 

UPDATE

Dear Harlan,

I wanted to update you about my I.R.P. entry from last year: I'm still dating the musician I asked out, and we're having a grand time. Looks like it might move to something more serious in the coming year. So glad I took the chance! Thanks again!