Posted: 2015-12-22 16:36:37
As this this year is drawing to a close, let me share some random lessons that I learnt since last year. They are specific to myself and not of a general nature, so kindly take no offence at them, it is simply my own experiences.
1.) Never ever give your private number to a lady. At some point you will have to block her.
2.) Never leave any of your possessions lying around. There are little mice that make them disappear.
3.) Never bring a lady to your own residence. At some point you will tire of her and then you sit with the constant fear that she might rock up there unexpectedly.
4.) Don't ever fall in love with a lady. It is not to be.
5.) Be very careful about disclosing personal information to a lady. You leave yourself vulnerable.
6.) Don't think that the punters on this site can be your friends. My standard for qualifying as a friend is way too high. Only one person qualified this year, everyone else disappointed me by betraying my trust. And he was away for most of the time.
7.) Only see a lady twice. At the third visit you are a "regular", with restrictions being placed upon you.
8.) Layla is the exception.
9.) Have a healthy debate on the site, and keep in mind that there are more knowledgeble people on this forum than yourself.
10.) The truth, how bitter and difficult, is always the best option. People wil know that you are always truthful, even if they don't always agree with you.
11.) Alcohol and/or substance abuse is much more rife in this industry than what I ever believed possible.
12.) Punters can be petty and adhere to a pack mentality.
13.) The "moment in the sun" philosophy by disclosing confidential information has been verified, so be really careful who you tell confidential information to.
14.) It is usually all about the money. The "click" that you feel is the sonar scanning your wallet.
15.) Respect the lady's private life. Never get involved in it. When she starts talking about her husband/boyfriend, run away.
On the plus side I have met some really wonderful people this year. They know who they are as I regularly engage with them on the forum. Layla stepped up to the plate and bullied me into accepting a few truths about myself as well as some mutual acquaintances that I completely missed. She is now a friend.
I learned to be cold, cynical and sarcastic as a way to protect my own introverted self.
So, quite an interesting year.
Looking forward to 2016.