Reviewing,
we talked about what happens to Ethan and Emma, if Ethan employs
copy-cat behavior, in winning her affections. Now we will surmise
about what happens if he tries to be absolutely unique. You will
recall that Emma was in love with the President of the Chess Club
when Ethan determined that he wanted to be her sweetheart.
Having
wisely avoided a Mohawk haircut, he has put on his best shirt and
tie, and walks up to her and blurts out, “I want to be a world
class marine Biologist, and study Evolution on Komodo Island. Will
you go bowling with me on Friday night?”
Emma
takes one look at him and evaluates him as a predictable simpleton,
and says “No thanks. Ask somebody else.”
Ethan
is shattered, and glumly proceeds to drown his sorrows in Grape Nehi,
bewailing the injustice of how “All Women” treat “All Men.”
As far as Ethan is concerned, this is utter failure, and the very
worst thing that could have happened. In reality, going by our
previous example, Ethan has saved months of time and a broken heart,
and has ended up with exactly the same result. He now knows that
Emma isn't interested, at this time. This is the best thing that
could have happened to Ethan, as long as he is still a friendly
person when Harper comes along.
Looking
back over our “disaster,” we see that Ethan certainly did not
sell himself short, but embellished the truth a little. He doesn't
want to study Evolution on Komodo Island any more than he wants to be
World Chess Champion! It is simply the highest possible goal of a
Vet's career.
Meanwhile
Emma didn't really make out like a bandit: (she stole no hearts
today.) The Chess Club
President hasn't asked her out yet, and she missed out on
a chance to honestly evaluate if she likes Ethan
at all. Double entendre if you must. As far as she can see, All
Chess Club Presidents never ask anyone out!
