Valentines Day

A man wearing a green coat and a cap that said "Honolulu" on it approached us in front of the restaurant. It was the four of us, using Valentines Day as an excuse to go on a double date with close friends. The man was confident yet nervous-- almost like a secret admirer coming out to his loved one on Valentines Day. He told us that he was a struggling poet, new to Seattle and wanted to know if we would listen to two of his poems. Our first thoughts were, how can you say no to someone who just wants you to listen to their words? But inevitably, and partly due to the teethless and homeless man across the street selling "kissing lessons" for $45, you couldn't help but think to yourself, "all this guy wants is some extra change." But we listened, and he impressed us. His first poem was about a peaceworld where we all lived in harmony; before he recited his second, he made each couple hold eachother-- in the middle of the street-- and stare into each other's eyes. My first reaction was nervous laughter and then a quick "no...!" It's interesting how even on the most "romantic" day of the year, it was hard for me to publicly show my affection for a loved one. After some hesitation, we finally went along with what he wanted, but I was giggling almost the entire time. After his poem he had us kiss. Then he asked for spare change. I appreciated what he did though. If he really is following his dreams, he has to start somewhere.