That’s what she said

It seems as though these advice columns have been one sided and never gave a male perspective on an issue. I am here to add a testosterone-induced response to various issues that men have little to no say in.

One such concerning deals with the hot-button issue of passing the check. Since the dawn on time, men have always been portrayed as the ones who must pay for the check during a dinner date. However, that double standard is something that needs to die.

Sure, there are some men who prefer to be chivalrous and pay, but there are some women who like to take charge and pay. I'm here to say that that's okay. Some men find it to be sexy when a woman takes charge and pays every once and a while.

Those of you that are reading this thinking that I'm vouching for men who are cheap, think about all the times someone paid for you without asking for anything in return and remember how you reacted to that. Did that mean you were being cheap or that someone wanted to do some thing nice for you? Is it wrong to ask to be treated like that in return?
I'm not making generalizations. I am only giving examples, and one such example is where both parties "go Dutch" and split the bill. This is one alternative that allows both parties to come to an agreement, and no one individual is forced to pay for the entire meal.

There are some females (and males) who may disagree with what I am saying and state that it is part of the gentleman's role to pay for the meal. If those who feel that way want to talk about stereotypical roles, then I know a few guys who would say that if they have to pay for the meal, there better be a cake baking in the oven when they get home.
No matter who pays for the check, the best way to handle the situation is to communicate with your date and decide how the bill will be handled way before the  waiter brings the check.

Guys, if there are any other issues you feel need to be addressed in this column, or if you would like to voice your own opinion, send an email to prospector@utep.edu.

Jesus C. Martinez may be reached at prospector@miners.utep.edu.