I love love. Romance is something I think every person idealizes and yearns for in their lives.The idea of falling in love and finding someone who makes you feel amazing and special is the goal -- am I right?
Nonetheless, nothing makes you feel shittier about yourself than going on a date (with yourself) to see the latest Nicholas Sparks movie and finding yourself surrounded by couples giggling,nuzzling and nibbling at each others throats like they're swans during mating season.
Through the years I have developed many tricks to ease these uncomfortable, and even anger-inducing encounters in life. I mean -- I just wanted to see a movie by myself and eat some bad nachos and an entire bag of popcorn in peace -- why you guys gotta make me feel so horrifically single?
These tips might help you fellow single folks out there who catch themselves in similar situations:
1. Let You Presence Be Known
I can't tell you how many times I have stumbled upon an unassuming couple mid-makeout blocking some door or archway or generally just being a pubic nuisance. What you must do is let yourself be known. Coughing, swearing or walking loudly will help, as would staging a fake phone call. Once these lovebirds realize they are blocking the stairwell or even the emergency exit, they will move and you may pass in peace.
2. Show No Fear
I recently found myself in Verona, Italy visiting the infamous Juliet of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet's" house. This historic spot has become a huge destination for lovers around the world to come and pose atop Juliet's balcony. Nothing reaffirms your singleness like being in line to take a picture solo on Juliet's balcony SURROUNDED by couples in love. As a true believer in LOVE and everything romantic I had to take a picture and I wasn't going to let the 20 some couples surrounding me affect that experience. So I didn't let it bother me and enjoyed the balcony and the museum. You're only as lonely as you let yourself be.
3. Be Happy That They're Happy
This is probably the hardest tip to do, but it kind of makes you a better person in the end. Love is hard to find and this couple standing before you packing the PDA on SO heavy you actually feel like you need to leave the park bench you're sitting on eating your lunch or else things will progress to the point of no return -- has found some form of love. So be happy that people are happy and love exists.
4. Seek Solace In Food
No matter what ails you in this world, food can usually help. I'm a fan of the Chipotle and ice cream pairing. Makes me feel ALL kinds of good vibes after I'm done.
5. Ignore Them
Ignorance is bliss and if you just do your best to ignore the couple at the table next to you playing footsie -- then it's like they aren't even there and you can go back to enjoying your meal.
