Green = the real color of romance?

If you're single, it seems as if you may have to put romance on hold even longer. The money struggles of the country clearly don't stop at clutching for a job, or having enough for the mortgage.

According to today's Washington Post feature, single men are taking a time out from the dating market for now. Who knew that even in today's feminist era that money + good looks are so crucial? Thousands of households are feeling the pressure from the current economic crisis, but in many areas, it appears that men take the biggest hit of all.

As far as we've come in redefining the once traditional roles of men and women (especially outside of "husband" and "wife), men still bear the shame of not being successful "providers". In fact, it occurs to me now how the value of the dollar has also found its way in placing monetary value to romance itself -- as well as the individual. What does this say about the man, who feels he has nothing to offer a woman because of the crashing job market? Or the woman who might feel shame in sharing the role of "financial provider?"

Single female seeks single male with big heart (and wallet). I see the personal ads writing themselves, just like the job listings ... coming soon with the attachment of dollar value.

Taking One for the Team?

Can it be true? I read over the weekend that losing self-control can be a GOOD thing. Our general sense of self-control and discipline encompass a large part of what we consider being a "responsible adult". The discipline needed to suppress certain urges to overindulge in food, clothes, sex, and drinking and make hard choices for a successful personal life or career are things we not only applaud - but seek to instill in future generations of men and women.

Historically, we are living beings who thrive on self-control to gain success in the ways we've deemed valuable - in gaining money, property, large families, etc. This is an essential product of "self-control," our moral principles and obligations. Having the discipline to be more selfless in our actions is crucial to the success of the group as a whole.

But when is self-control too much of a danger? Can you see the white line before you cross into self-deprivation, self-punishment, and self-injury? And how far do we expect others to go in being "selfless" and giving up some of their own desires and comfort for the good of the group? Consider the corporate environment - this is the core philosophy that drives every business to their success. Ideas must be sacrificed, individuals must be let go, and conflicts must be resolved (or locked away) in order for the whole to survive. Can you still count the number of times you've had to sacrifice?

This is all just a little food to chew for the evening. I think it's a fascinating topic, and will probably revisit it later on. Please feel free to comment!