A few years ago a friend of mine told me, "You can't fix asshole" was a great title for a blog post; so I decided to give it a shot. In addition to it being a great title - the statement is true. The words came out of my mouth during a conversation with a female colleague about dating. She and I were discussing a guy she had been seeing. To make a long story short, she was uninterested in continuing to date him because of his teeth. Pause for reaction.

Before I go any further, I realize there are multiple reasons why we find people attractive - and teeth can be one of them. I admit that is why I consider both Tyrese Gibson and Taye Diggs attractive. And although I understand the need for an attraction to exist for a significant other, I was annoyed by her comment simply because teeth can be fixed - you can't fix asshole. What is more important - someone with a million dollar smile or a person who treats you with the utmost respect? I've learned the character of a man is what matters most - not what he looks like or what he possesses. Furthermore, once you get to know a person and their personality, they can become the most beautiful person you've ever seen.

As I've gotten older my requirements for a significant other have evolved. I remember a time when I would run down a description of what I thought I wanted in a man - sadly, it was mostly physical. Now my focus is much different. At this point in my life I am looking for someone who is sane, respectful, and employed - we can work everything else out.

The way I see it, a perfectly chiseled face and body is just the packaging. What does the heart look like? Will he love me unconditionally in spite of who I am and what I am not? Will he value me and treat me like the precious gem that I am? Will he demonstrate the highest level of respect for me in public and in private? Will he support and encourage me in my dark hours?

Bottom line, if there is someone willing and able to truly love me and his teeth are less than perfect - I am game. And if he is interested in getting his teeth fixed, I'll go with him. I know a good orthodontist.