Beginning this blog with a universal question... What is with men? Having a father, brothers, sons, nephews, sons-in-law, grandsons, or a dozen male friends doesn't seem to process in the brain well enough to really understand the inner workings of a relationship with a man. And let's not limit this to romantic relationships here, even friendships with men are an enigma, of sorts. Try to keep it at purely friendship levels and they want more; try to want more and they become defensively unavailable.

Is it really true that men only want what they can't have? And once they have it, they don't want it any more? Or is it just that in truth, Fantasy is so much better than Reality?

So, here we are... still in the dark after all these years. Have I learned ANYthing at all? Of course, but can it be put to use? Doubtfully, but maybe.

I'm no longer sure that I have the energy to even ask about what they want, who they really are, do they really care... And... do they feel the same way about us? Is it back to the old adage that "Men are from Mars"? Has the question already been asked ad nauseum?

But, to be fair, let's ask the questions and see if our counterparts can possibly supply us with a satisfactory answer, shall we. Women, you ask a deep burning question, and men, see if you can find it within yourselves to be genuine enough to provide a real answer (no offense intended, I just know how you guys like to joke sometimes). No, I don't expect all of you to be the same and have the same question and/or answer, but if enough of you participate, I'm sure some relevant questions and answers will emerge from both sides.

I'm talking relationship issues here... Father/Daughter, Mother/Son, Husband/Wife, Male Friend/Female Friend, etc. And to try to keep this palatable for everyone, let's not delve into the lurid, shocking, raw or offensive subjects. Realizing that sexuality is a huge part of male/female relations, we can still keep this pleasant for everyone by keeping it real.

Most importantly, let's keep this fun. It's okay to joke and have fun, but if you make fun OF someone, then we're back to square one. So, let's agree to sometimes disagree, but not to make fun of, poke fun at, disparage, disrespect, or make fun of another's feelings or comments. I think we are all insecure in some manner or another, so putting that on the table right up front, should help to put us all on equal ground.

Also, IF a question or answer seems rudimentary, or possibly repugnant, try to put yourself in the other person's shoes and determine where they are really coming from before getting upset, angry, or emotionally charged. Communication is the key; a key that is as elusive as the question of "What is with men (and women)?".

On with the show...