Recently I was asked how one might tell the difference between chivalry and manipulation.  Sometimes Prince Charming turns back into a frog once penetration and ejaculation has been achieved.  Adversely, there are others out there who simply suffer for their articulation.  They say the right thing at the right moment, feeding you line after line until it seems too good to be true.  And so you convince yourself that it is.  You keep yourself guarded and distant as to not fall victim.  Prepare for and expect the worst. 

                Because when your first dog bites, you’ll buy a muzzle for the next.

The answer is that there is no answer- no concrete method of determining an individual’s intent.  But this should not deter the victims of “Prince Charming.”  Reassurance can be found in this universal understanding of pain and hurt.  Of disappointment and despair.  For every person, both living and dead, has experienced that splintering of the heart.

                So learn to take love in stride.  Trust others until given a reason not to.  Invite that gentleman to share your bed and share your life.  And after shuffling through a number of suitors you’ll finally come across the man who means it when he tells you that you’re beautiful.  Who feels physical pain when you’re away.

And at last you’ll understand that the journey had been worth it.