“All I wanna do is have a little fun before I die.” says a man sitting next to me, out of no where.

It's apropos of nothing. He says his name is William, but I'm sure he's Bill or Billy or Mac or Buddy.

And he's plain ugly to me! And I wonder if he's ever had a day of fun in his whole life.

We’re drinking beer at noon on Tuesday in a bar that faces a giant car wash. The good people of the world are washing their cars on their lunch break—hosing and scrubbing as best they can in skirts in suits.

Age

Confidence, frugality, honesty, tenderness, intellectual curiosity. And yea, someone who loves themselves enough to take care of their body. Not because they need to show it off (which honestly can be off putting, along with other neuroticism), but because it feels good be healthy. I can be put off by the sort of vanity that goes along with all the cosmetics industry and fashion, but I've learned to be a little less hard line about that, as self expression is a right I don't have a place to deny anyone. Broad flavor palate is pretty important, if only because I like to cook, and I cook a very broad range of foods, and it gets really old hearing complaints about it and demands to make more boring food. A proper rebel spirit is pretty important -- you don't have to agree with me on everything, but you sure as hell shouldn't be just a relay for Rachel Maddow (or Sean Hannity, for that matter). The ability to both hold strong opinions and not feel threatened by opposing ones (okay that ties back to confidence).

Oh, and patience...because if they're gonna be putting up with me they're sure better be patient. Besides, patience is the essence of low time preference.

At the end of the day the same cardinal virtues I find attractive in anyone are things I look for in a romantic partner. A one night stand is one thing, but if I'm going to be expending my time and energy and at times relying on you then there should be at least a modicum of fortitude, temperance, prudence, and justice. Especially if there's a chance of you playing a role in raising any children I have.