So this is something I worry about. Really. Just one of the many, many things I worry about each and every day (because I’m a worrier and that’s what we do — we worry).

What if one of these guys that I’ve gone out with on a date finds my blog? And what if he doesn’t like that I’ve written just a little thing about him — that I had lunch with him or that I call him “xxxxguy”?

Will I have missed out on something meaningful because I’ve shared a blurb about him or will he have missed out on something meaningful because he doesn’t understand that I would never spill any of his secrets online (because I’m a very good secret keeper)?

Should I clip my proverbial wings or is it ok to write about these things? I mean, really, it’s been one lunch with each one. Nothing more. But what if it is something more? Can I say we went on another date? I don’t say their names (I mean, eventually, I might if that’s how it worked out). I don’t tell about their stints in prison or that big mole on their…

Oops.

Heh.

Seriously though.

I’m really thinking about this because I’m taking another autobiography class. A few of us were talking and I was wondering how the other people felt about this book — the people that are discussed. We know one person killed herself after the book came out (but I’m sure the book was not the reason for her suicide).

This is my autobiography. I’m writing about the things that happen in my life and the people who pass through my life (except for those who specifically request that I don’t write about them).

If I don’t share these things, do I, as a writer, lose credibility? Do I lose authenticity? Oh, my life is swell and lovely and everything is painted a rosy pink. Is that how it would all come out if I didn’t talk about the events that happen in my life – like dating?

I don’t know. I do worry, though, that what I write may offend someone who could be someone important. But I also hope that if it was going to be something real, that person would take the time to talk to me about it and understand why I write here and why I want to share things about him. If he didn’t, he probably wouldn’t be the right person for me.