A Crush Since Day 1
In 1997 I wanted a new tax guy. I was referred to Mike. He had a great smile, and I immediately crushed hard. Each year I’d offer up a new persona to get his attention: The damsel in financial distress. The rising PR exec who catered on the side and could cook. Nothing worked; Mike was all business. Fast forward to 2005. At his suggestion, we meet for a drink. Four drinks in, I say, “Can I tell you a secret? I’ve had a crush on you since Day 1.” We just celebrated our 15-year wedding anniversary. — Debra Jack
Horror Films and Poetry Readings
“If you met Mary today, would you still choose her?” a friend asked. “Of course,” I replied. I felt indignant at the question, yet knew why it had been asked. Mary and I are nothing alike. Mary hails from Puerto Rico and is a former nun; I’m from Brooklyn and light Shabbat candles every Friday night. Mary enjoys horror films; I enjoy poetry readings. Last night Mary ate pork chops for supper; I feasted on tofu. So why did I choose her? Thirty-six years ago, I looked into her eyes and saw nothing but kindness. I still do. — Lesléa Newman
