To all my fellow “daters” out there... have you ever tried explaining to an elder the definition of “talking” to someone or “almost dating but not really” stage or the “I really like him and he really likes me but we aren’t going to acknowledge it because that would make sense” stage? Yeah, so have I. Hasn’t gone too well, though. Ever wondered why? Maybe it’s because our generation is a little bit crazy and overthinks the whole dating process. Why not bring back how things used to be that worked just fine and actually ended up being far less complicated. Why not just ask someone out on a date? A normal, interactive date to the park or to get ice cream. Or is this just a thing of the past?

My point to this post is to encourage this generation to bring back the class of truly interacting with another human being and not solely rely on what they say in your hundreds of texts sent throughout the week. I do guarantee that if you really want to see how someone feels about you, a date is the perfect way. Interaction and (in-person) communication is key. More so, actions speak louder than words. And just as a little curve-ball, ladies, we can ask someone out as well. It doesn’t always have to be the guy. I know we enjoy the butterfly feeling of someone asking if we are free on a certain night and want to get coffee or grab dinner, but maybe we challenge a boy to the feeling.

With asking and being asked on a date being thrown out there, we need to remember that it is not all about glitz and glam and although it is fun to pull out our favorite dress and heels, not every date we go on needs that attire. Most people reading this post that it effects are broke college students, no need to push anyone more in debt. Besides, sometimes the best dates are spent in sweats with a pizza and just each other's presence and conversation. From personal experience, I did enjoy the extravagant plans and fancy dinners, but my favorite time spent was just one-on-one, being goofy, laughing, and realizing how happy I can be without the lights and waiters and fancy foods that I don’t understand. So if a boy just asks to go to sonic and sit and talk, take advantage of that time especially; because you can learn a lot in that sonic parking lot.

When growing up did your grandparents ever talk about their first date? Getting picked up to go roller-skating or to the diner down the street for milkshakes? Now when their generation asks what you did on your first date with someone are they kind of taken back? Dating has evolved into something that might not be for the better. Instead of going up to a door, a “here” text is sent. Instead of a phone call a few days later, a picture on social media is liked and a text is sent saying “hey”.

So let’s do it. Let’s bring back the in-person dating and stop making it so complicated. We can just throw the word out there, it won’t bite. Two people can go on a few dates and be in a “dating” stage and not be in a serious relationship. Yes, phone calls still work, not everything has to be typed out. You can do it. Seven words. “Can I take you on a date?”