Putting Into Practice #2 - Perceptual Process

     I grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada. There is just a predispositioned idea developed from being from Las Vegas. In my travels all over the world, when I say "I'm from Las Vegas" there is never a silence after this statement. It is always rebuttalled with what the other person did, saw, experienced, or dream of doing in Las Vegas. They have an idea of the place already.
     I grew up going to school with hundreds of people, all from different backgrounds and races, religious beliefs and cultures. I had black friends but we never hung out. I was friends with and attracted to black guys, but had my own predetermined ideas about them and their behaviors. I had some good and bad interactions which formed my ideas.
     I have been single for several years now. I get asked out and pursued by a broad variety of guys, but never been asked out by a black man. Until... Three weeks ago I was approached at a singles function in dominantly white St George,Utah. A tall black guy, dressed like an athlete, mid thirties, Warriors Hat on and tilted slightly, notices me. He doesn't smile, not good eye contact but not shy? I mean, I can't read his body language, his interest level, he isn't a "gangsta" type but not sure at all who this person represents himself as. I walk away and begin talking to others to distract him and send the message...nope! I head home and get ready for bed.
     Out of the blue I get a text on my phone. "Hi Amy...This is Larry. I'm not sure if you would remember me but I am the only black guy that was at the singles activity tonight"....(Hhaaa!) I'm thinking, "How did you get my number, what do you want, I know nothing about you, but pretty sure I am not interested, you weren't even friendly and...uummhhmm...you are black". He asked if he could call me for a few minutes. Sigh....... "Okay", I say, "but only for a few minutes".
     He was articulate, smart, an excellent communicator, honest, inquisitive, sensitive, wise, open and an amazing listener. We talked for 5 hours! He was actually easy to talk to! We shared similar humor, values, religious beliefs, and some goals and aspirations. He is from Chicago, but never smoked, drank, or done drugs...Ever! Larry is a hard working, dedicated father of 5 girls. I have since met them all and have seen his warm smile when he is doing what he loves best; being an awesome dad! I would never have thought that this person who I perceived as a typical black man, could be someone I am now dating! When we talk, we have a hard time hanging up the phone. When we are spending time together, I feel like I can be myself completely. Who would have thunk it!!! ;)