In 1983, I went with my best friend Don to see Fast Times at Ridgemont High.  I thought it would be a night like any other until I ran into Karen, my girlfriend from 5th grade.  She had come to see the movie with her friend Melinda.  While I noticed Melinda right away, I focused my attention on Karen initally. 

I was very introverted as a child, shy and insecure.  It was much easier to speak with someone I already knew.  So while Melinda caught my eye that first night, I could never dream of being bold enough to actually pursue her.  A funny thing happened, though.  In the coming weeks, I would go visit Karen and I kept running into Melinda.  I was more and more intrigued by her.  She was beautiful and kind and had a disarming smile.

One day, I was at Don's house when he called Melinda.  I don't recall if I asked him or not, but I remember commandeering the phone and pretending to be Don as she continued to talk.  I don't remember if she was fooled or not.  Knowing Melinda, she was several steps ahead of me, as always. 

They key point is that she emboldened me to take a chance, such was my desire to know this woman.  That was the beginning of the relationship that forever changed my life for the better.