So I know this isn't the typical success story, but I wanted to commemorate this moment.
I haven't been on a date in over 2 years because of cancer and then just not having any luck with apps or IRL (wrote about it before using this account which is primarily for dating woes). It was really getting me down, and I really wanted to break the long fast with a decent human being even if the date didn't turn into something more. I wanted to do it with an open mind, just having a good time and participating in another part of life I've been missing for a while.
Now it finally happened! He was a respectful, good dude who never made me feel unsafe, weird or immediately sexualized. While there wasn't a romantic/sexual spark on my end for a few reasons (don't know about him yet), I plan to reject him as kindly as possible and take it as a sign that meeting solid humans is still possible, if I'm willing to be patient with myself and the process.
Up next, would be nice to find a date that actually turns into a second one!