The Dream and the Ego

Back in the early '80s, I was definitely enamored with an uncommonly vital and feisty woman. Presley combined brains and beauty. She'd been a homecoming queen runnerup at Emory College. She was also a good athlete and fierce competitor, especially in tennis. (I recall her declaring, after I returned a monster serve of hers for a sudden death, set-winning point, "Damn you Gorkin, your male ego just won't let you lose this set!")

 A dream mate. I met Presley shortly after her difficult divorce from her doctor husband. We were both teaching graduate classes. I pursued ardently, and there was some mind-body attraction but ... Presley was into major new exploration - women. I gave it a valiant effort, alas, to no avail. I certainly hoped l wasn't the male who finally pushed her over the edge. (That male ego just never rests.)

 Presley and I had a heart-to-heart and decided to remain friends. I was still feeling a bit mopey, when salvation arrived in a Hallmark store. Presley's 30th was approaching, and there on the rack sat the perfect card. It said: "Now that you're thirty, just remember ... there's more to life than wine, women and song!" Both Presley and I howled till we cried. Once again, laughter is the best medicine.

 Remember ... practice safe stress!