Now I See [spiritually] Meets Chaos [worldly] (M9)

I think the biggest misunderstanding people have about me as a single man is that I am either a player or I am gay. Actually, I am neither.

So, now you must be wondering what he does with his time. Right?

Man 9 (M9) is 36 years old. He has assumed guardianship of two boys whose parents were unable to care for them. He works full time (like most of us), is active in volunteer ministry at his church, enjoys running and spending time with his two boys.

I am an animal lover and have three dogs. My favorite music venues include my shower and my car. I think all honest people rank those among their top 3!  I enjoy reading books on my iPad while relaxing on the deck. I also love "dude movies". I connect with the boys over comics, super heroes, and action and adventure.

The Only Constant Is Change (W14)

I quit my job and took six weeks to visit Ireland and travel through Europe. I am so glad I took the time away.

On the day I interviewed Woman 14 (W14) she was 29 years old. A few days later she turned the big 3-0. I, for one, think that an extended European vacation followed by landing a new job is a great way to walk out of your 20's with a fresh perspective.

I am very competitive. I feel powerful when I am playing sports, after a tough run or a big challenge.

My family is the part of my life that is working best right now. We have become close in the last few years. My mom is from Ireland and I have a lot of family there. The trip was a great chance to spend time with them.

It's All About Timing (W13)

I feel powerful when I am being vulnerable. Over the last few months I have focused on being open and real. People perceive me as guarded even though I feel like an open book.

Woman 13 (W13) is 32 years old. She was headed out of town with a friend for a weeks vacation the day after our interview. She works in the creative realm and takes care not to allow herself to be overly consumed with her job. When I first met her she was bubbly and relaxed. She has a disarming smile and a welcoming nature about her.

I decided to meet with you and be interviewed because I am in a good spot. My friend asked me if I was interested and I figured I didn't have anything to lose. Right now the things that are working in my life are my job and finding a balance between work and social life.

The person who told me about the blog is a great friend that I have know since seventh grade. She is my mirror. I know she will be honest with me no matter what.

?... (M8)

I love big brains. Seriously. One of my favorite things is stumbling into a conversation someone who
is crazy smart, or well read, or super interesting.

This interview was a perfect example of a conversation with an intelligent, curious person who enjoys life.

Man 8 (M8) is 39 years old working in medical device sales and marketing. He travels frequently for work and for fun.

When my friend suggested I be interviewed for your blog I said yes with no hesitation. He asked and I said yes. Man 8 told me that from his view point the thing people most misunderstand about being a single man is that  he don't have as much free time as people assume. (Like all single people he either has to handle everything or find someone else to do it and pay them. His statement gave me flashbacks to my Dad saying that he had kids to do laundry, dishes, vacuum and mow the lawn.)

Post Waffles (W12)

Woman 12 (W12) is 26 years old. She is sweet natured and quick to strike up a conversation. In some ways she is youthful and innocent. In other ways she is wise beyond her years.  She told me that she agreed to be interviewed because she felt the push. I couldn't ignore it.

There are many sides to her and in our short conversation I am sure we only scratched the surface. It would take a lot of time and conversation to gain real insight into her heart and mind. The things about her that struck me initially were her level head, her loving heart, and her desire to live in community.

You see when you spend time with W12 you often get the chance to spend time with her son. Being a single mom means that when she is not at work he is typically by her side.

Here is part of our email chain to set up the interview:

Me: Don't know what your schedule is with your son but I am pretty flexible. let me know when would be the best time for you. looking forward to it!

W12: I have [him] 24/7/365. He's pretty easily entertained with a kindle though! We could do coffee before 11.

The Unknown (M7)

I think I just met a real life Renaissance Man!


Man 7 (M7) revealed multiple layers of interests and insight. In some ways he is a big kid. In other ways he is an old soul. He epitomizes "the guy next door".

He told me that he feels powerful when he's driving  his truck. Or, when he can maintain eye contact with a stranger longer than they do. The way he explained it sounded like a social experiment in connection. So many people are lost in their phone or iPod desperate to avoid human connection.

My job and my finances are what works best in my life right now. I am living debt free. I think I am more knowledgeable than powerful. I am intelligent; street smart and book smart.

Refreshing to meet a 27 year old man who is interested in knowledge rather than obsessed with power.

Enjoying the Manifestation I Am Creating (M6)

I'm working on reducing inner chatter and ending negative thoughts.

We met at Kona Grill for sushi. As soon as he started eating he said, "I am in Heaven!" Man 6 (M6) is 48 years old. He attends Unity of Kansas City North and works as a Realtor. Our conversation included topics like spirituality, self employment, relationships, the path to inner peace and joy, and ideas surrounding the pursuit of a fulfilled life. His spiritual life is full and he was excited to share his experience with me. This is what he had to say.

There are no original sinners. Just original blessings. I am living my life seeking complete healing and wholeness.

It is hard to grasp how powerful words are. You have to be careful with the words that you choose. Affirmative prayer is a good example. I believe in praying the good you already have rather then praying for the good. The good things are here. (Read that again. That's deep)