The world of romance has never been an easy one for us superheroes, but I feel like I strike out more than most. I’m like Spider-Man without a Mary Jane. Or like Cyclops without…no…let’s not even go there.

I do manage to get dates with women. They just don’t tend to lead anywhere other than friendship. Yes, the dreaded Friend Zone. But if anything, that’s precisely the direction I push the relationships in.

Doesn’t it make sense? I’m looking for a woman to forge a lifelong love with. But isn’t friendship the most solid basis upon which to build that relationship? Isn’t the ideal spouse also your best friend?

I’ve come to the conclusion that, in taking a very long term view, I’ve neglected the short term. I’m too slow to turn away from fun and towards romance. And it’s not like I have no romance! I just haven’t felt like it was the right time so early on.

So, next time I’m dating somebody, I’m going to move out of my comfort zone and try making my romantic intent clear. There’s never going to be a long term if I can’t even make it past the short term.

And also, for any of you ladies out there reading this, go easy on the awkward guys who seem like they only want to have fun with you. If you have a bit of patience with them, you might discover a lot more passion under the surface!