chapter 9: The alchemy of blind dates (2024)

A blind date, the modern ritual of meeting a stranger to spark a romantic connection, can be mysterious and exciting. We can investigate the warped meeting by examining the methods and principles of alchemists, ancient scientists, and philosophers who sought to transform base metals into gold and achieve spiritual enlightenment.

Although alchemy and blind dates exist in vastly different contexts, the parallels between the two are insightful into human nature.

At the core of both alchemy and blind dating lies the acceptance of uncertainty. Medieval alchemists embarked on their experiments without guarantees, driven by curiosity and the allure of hidden knowledge. Similarly, blind daters step into the unknown, embracing the potential for finding something extraordinary and instilling a sense of hope and inspiration.

Alchemists experimented with unexpected results, altering metals to create gold or discover life's elixir. This pursuit was marked by trial and error, with each experiment providing insights, whether successful or not. This process of learning and growth, despite its ups and downs, can be reassuring and encouraging for blind daters as well.

Similar to alchemical experiments, they are social experiments where people meet with little prior knowledge. And, above all, a sense of uncertainty about the results of the meeting -

Those who meet on blind dates are excited about the potential of discovery. Every date, successful or otherwise, offers lessons in self-awareness.

Transformation is a central theme in alchemy and blind dating. The process involves taking something ordinary and turning it into something extraordinary through a series of steps or experiences.

In alchemy, this could be purifying and perfecting metals or oneself. In blind dating, it could be getting to know someone and building a meaningful relationship.

The process of turning base metals into gold symbolizes a profound transformation. Alchemists sought spiritual and intellectual enlightenment to purify and perfect themselves and their materials.

On a blind date, people often present the best versions of themselves to turn a casual encounter into a meaningful relationship. The potential for personal growth and mutual transformation is significant. Participants learn about each other and themselves, which may lead to a deeper connection.

Both alchemy and blind dating are shrouded in mystery, which adds to the excitement of discovery. In alchemy, the mystery lies in the unknown properties of the materials and the potential for unexpected results. In blind dating, the mystery lies in not knowing who you will meet and the date's outcome. These unknown elements add a layer of intrigue and motivation to the process.

The mystery of not knowing who you will meet and the outcome is essential to the blind date experience. Each date is a unique discovery process, revealing new aspects of compatibility, personality, and shared interests.

Hope and ambition fuel both alchemists and those who meet on blind dates. The potential for achieving something profound, whether discovering a new chemical reaction or finding a meaningful connection, keeps the participants motivated and resilient in the face of uncertainty.

Trial and error are common threads in alchemy and blind dating. Alchemists conducted countless experiments, many of which failed. However, each error provided valuable knowledge, gradually advancing their understanding and techniques.

Not every blind date leads to a lasting connection; some may end awkwardly. However, each experience offers valuable insights and lessons, such as learning about one's preferences, refining one's approach to dating, or gaining a deeper understanding of oneself.

As Marilyn, the adventurous; Eleanor, the witty; and Robert, the thoughtful, settled at the bustling bar counter, Effie, the friendly barman, offered them a unique co*cktail he had crafted just for them.

Moonlit Lavender Soho*r

This co*cktail, a unique creation born from Effie's imagination, was no ordinary drink. It demanded meticulous preparation, and Effie, in a gesture of generosity, promised to share the recipe if it won their hearts.

The three brought the glasses to their mouths. They smelled the delicate and delightful lavender scent that rose from them, sipped a little, and looked into each other's surprised eyes. The three declared the drink memorable and named it a co*cktail to accompany them at the upcoming team meeting.

Robert brought up the thought that blind dates, considering more of the same, can be completely exhausted. He turned to Marilyn and Eleanor's imagination and inventive skills to build a blind date event that had never been heard before.

Both women frowned, sipping their co*cktails as Eleanor mused aloud. "In about two weeks, a relative of mine is holding a wedding party in one of the more exclusive event gardens. I am supposed to attend the event alone; my dear son, the frequent traveler, is somewhere in the Far East. What do you think I will find a man suitable for a blind date at the wedding?

Effie was convinced that this crazy idea had come to the table under the influence of the co*cktail, so Robert rolled his eyes and held his breath, careful not to express critical criticism. Marilyn marveled aloud at the genius idea. "What an exciting approach, Eleanor. You were a surprise conquerer! A blind date at a wedding lowers many barriers: where will the blind date take place, a cafe or maybe a restaurant? Which restaurant? Who will pay the bill, and how many drinks will be served? A blind date at a wedding removes all these from the agenda and makes room for an honest, frank conversation free of prejudices.

Robert cautiously remarked, "And what will the family members say? Will you make it clear that this is a Blind date?" Eleanor smiled ear to ear and said, "My mother will be so happy to see me with a partner finally. I will, of course, not admit that this is a blind date. If they ask him all the frustrating questions about what you do, where you studied, where you live, and all that jazz, I'll just sit back and enjoy the answers."

How will you know what he looks like?" asked Robert heavily. And if he seems like a shame to the eyes," It won't happen, Eleanor stated firmly. He will appear in his best suit—a wedding, you forgot—and I will also put on a performance from the movies. I'm sure we will both look our best.

The three sank into contemplation, drained the rest of the co*cktail, signaled to Effie to serve another round, and Marilyn decided to share with the team a little dream she had. It was time to make it come true.

"For a long time, I've been dreaming of a blind date with blindfolds. It's to feel like an actual date in Blindness. You don't see anything. And from there, check how the date will develop".

"That idea sounds dangerous to me," said Robert. "What will you do if someone shows up with a knife and slits your throat before you realize what's happening?"

Eleanor wasn't sure about this groundbreaking idea either. "You bring yourself to a state of total lack of control. "where will this crazy blind date take place?" "In a hotel suite," Marilyn replied." I will offer to share the expense; this will significantly reduce the number of candidates. The candidate will have to present himself at the reception; if he wants to slit my throat, he will be the one to testify at the police."

Robert strongly objected, but the girls found this alchemical experiment interesting.

Another co*cktail closed the evening with Marilyn and Eleanor pondering how they would choose the candidate.

Effie equipped the participants with the recipe and showed extreme curiosity about the next meeting, which would bring the alchemical blind date scrolls.

Moonlit Lavender Sour

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz. Gin

  • 1 oz. Lavender simple syrup (recipe below)

  • 1 oz. Fresh lemon juice

  • 1/2 oz. Crème de Violette

  • 1 Egg white

  • Edible glitter for garnish

  • Lavender sprig for garnish

Lavender Simple Syrup:

  1. Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 2 tbsp of dried lavender buds in a saucepan.

  2. Heat until the sugar dissolves.

  3. Let cool and strain out the lavender buds.

Instructions:

  1. Combine gin, lavender simple syrup, lemon juice, crème de violette, and egg white in a shaker.

  2. Dry shake (without ice) to emulsify the egg white.

  3. Add ice and shake again until well chilled.

  4. Strain into a coupe glass.

  5. Sprinkle a small amount of edible glitter on top.

  6. Garnish with a lavender sprig.

chapter 9: The alchemy of blind dates (2024)
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