A Valentine’s word on communication

I apologize for straying from my Safe Sex 101 series, but I would like to address a major issue before Valentine's Day approaches. History has asked us some questions that are still unanswered today. What came first, the chicken or the egg? What is the meaning of life, and is Dick Clark really a robot?

One concept of human relationships is dating. Be forewarned; this is merely an opinion piece, and if you disagree please consider this as merely a theory.

Many people have experienced them, and many more have lamented them. Dating is misunderstood yet constant aspect of life. I enlisted some help with peer opinions, and today we'll attempt to clarify some dating questions.

What does one consider a date? From a female perspective, a date usually involves dressing up, a nice dinner and some sweet nothings whispered at the end of the night.

That however is stereotypical. Generally, a date has the following criteria. It has been established that there is some sort of romantic interest, and it is just between two people.

This may seem like a short list, but that's really the only universal criteria for a date.

What about paying for the date? Doesn't the guy pay? It is generally assumed that men pay on a date. The men I talked to all agreed that they pay for dinner and movies on a date. But that alone does not define a date. The guy panel made a point in saying that sometimes they will pay for really good female friends, so it could be that you just have a really nice guy friend.

What if the girl wants to pay? Well that's all well and good. If you're the progressive female type, then go for it! The guy panel said they would be OK with a girl paying for the two of them, but they would put up a fight. Some guys are just old-fashioned that way. A good way to let a guy know that you're not interested is to pay for your own stuff. If he offers, turn him down, and get your wallet out.

So Suzy, how do I ask someone on a date? Gentlemen, do you usually ask a girl out by using the line, "You want to hang out sometime?" If you like the girl and want to pursue her romantically, do not use this line. Many girls assume that you just want to watch TV, play video games or some other casual activity.

There are two categories: "You want to hang out sometime?" is good if you just met a girl or guy and want to get drinks or coffee. Once you get to know them and want to pursue them further, a good way to ask is "Would you like to go out sometime?"

Above all, I would like to stress that on Valentine's Day, please give the gift of clear communication. If you like a girl, tell her. If you think that guy is cute, let him know. If you want to ask your best friend on a date, do it. In fact, I dare all my readers to communicate and be honest to those they care about.

Share any horror stories or happy endings at suzysextalk@gmail.com. I'm also still looking for questions on sexual health and relationships, so send those to me as well. Have a wonderful week!