Just once, I'd like to meet a chap whose first words---when talking about men-women interactions---*aren't* "C'mon, admit it, playing mind games is like some sort of requirement to being female!" (Or some variation on that theme.) No matter how I respond---teasingly, philosophically, sarcastically, rationally---I *always* get the condescending verbal equivalent of a pat on the head.

It's such a damnable cliche. Especially since, while there are certainly manipulative, fickle, and plainly addlepated females out there, much of the confusion in a relationship comes from both sides, that infamous lack of communication. Men and women are different. Can't really help that. There's bound to be some missed, or misread, signals. And it's not because the woman is emotional, irrational, or power-tripping.

Besides, I *know* women who aren't that way. Who despise mind games, who want everything level and straight and honest. And, truth to tell, most of those women don't get a second glance. They're friends, confidantes, gal-pals, but they're not girlfriends.

So what's up with that?

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