Babykorb roughly translates to “baby hamper”. So if you’re ever in Mannheim and feel like ditching that little bundle of joy, just drop it in the baby hamper and away you go. The sign on the door roughly translates to, “Please don’t open the baby hamper unnecessarily.” No messing around, leave your baby or keep the door shut! Props again to LEB for the photo.
It’s been a while now since I’ve had the courage to partake in post-divorce dating. I can safely say that it hasn’t always been an easy experience. I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m quite fractured and flawed when it comes to relationships. I’m afraid of abandonment and I require abnormal amounts of attention. I can easily blame these flaws on the abrupt end to my marriage. Despite my best efforts, these feelings are hard to shake and I’m sure I come across as clingy.
I’m sure I’m not the first nor the last person to pick up the pieces and start dating again after a painful loss (including the death of a loved one). I’m sure there are people out there who wonder how they can attract a partner and get back in the game. I’m also sure that there are tons of advice columns and blogs and such that offer advice on snagging a keeper. Personally, I feel there’s really only one rule to follow – be yourself.
Sure you can present yourself in a favorable light or try to be what the other person is looking for. Eventually, though, the “real” you will come out. Even if you intend to improve yourself as I do, you have to let the other person see what they’re getting into. If you’re fragile and timid and hurt, that other person needs to know that so you can grow and share and heal together if you want to. If the other person can see who you really are and still wants to be with you, then you’ve already accomplished your goal without any extra effort at all. If that person isn’t interested, then let them go and move on – they weren’t right for you anyway.
It can be discouraging to start dating and deal with a lot of “first dates”. Keep in mind, though, that going on “second” and “third” and further dates is not always a given, but always rewarding if you just be yourself. If you’re lucky, someone who loves and supports you and accepts you even though you’re flawed will come around. For that, I’m always grateful.
jknitt