The extra scoop of whipped cream on the corner of the plate reminded me that dating could be fun. That morning life took on its normal path and offered up frustration, anxiety, and lots of unknowns. If only I knew what would make me happy in a job, in a partner, in my everyday choices just maybe then I’d be full of more action. If I had gotten up earlier and fit in that 4 mile run before heading to work would I feel better about my day? If I had my morning coffee on the balcony instead of on the bathroom sink while blow drying my hair would my morning be more satisfying? Perhaps if I had thought to buy a roast from Publix the night before to throw in the crockpot in the early morning hours, I’d feel more productive and alive? I mean I hardly doubt a roast is the answer to my inner struggles, but it could at least appease my growling stomach after a long day.

As I glanced across the table at this perfectly beautiful human, I thought to myself just how lucky I was to meet someone new. His teeth were perfectly white, his southern accent made me giggle a bit, and his nicely pressed blue button-down shirt emphasized his strong upper body. We talked about our lives, our family, and the things that made us get up in the morning. We were strangers essentially, but for tonight we were dining partners. 

As the waitress came back around to offer up the bill, she mentioned cheesecake. If I’d imagined up a dining experience with a perfect stranger, it would most certainly end with a large slice of Godiva chocolate cheesecake with that extra scoop of whipped cream on the corner of the plate. I willingly offered up my enthusiasm for the opportunity of dessert and before I could calculate the calories in a shared piece of chocolate heaven, we were eating off the same plate. Whether or not a second date comes into play, I left that night knowing that sharing a piece of chocolate cheesecake with a complete stranger is something I could add to my list of happiness.