Upset after a bad date this weekend that effectively ended yet another three week long relationship, I called my cousin and close friend, "Megan, why do I do this? What is the point? I'm so tired of being disappointed." Because I am. I am so tired of letting myself get hopeful. Of putting myself out there. Of spending time and energy to wind up hurt, upset, and alone. Again. I'm frustrated and angry. And totally and completely ready to give up. The frustration that comes with dating is a very unique kind of frustration, because it is something that is uniquely reflective on each of us as whole individuals. Being rejected by a potential mate hits us deep within our soul where all of our most secret insecurities live. When we date, we are putting our whole selves out into the world. Especially in the beginning (which is as far as I've gotten in the last two years so all I can really talk about), we take all of the things we think are best about ourselves. ...