A quora question.

If I met myself, what would happen?

I think the first few minutes would be awkward, because that's just how I am with strangers. I'd probably be feeling sorry for her, the poor thing, so self-conscious and anxious and awkward, and she'd probably feel the same about me.

But while I show her consideration, I'd realise that she'd be doing the same for me; at that point I would think, I want to be her friend. I want to really get to know her. I am willing to invest my time and burdensome emotions on her...for now.

And then maybe we'd go for lunch or visit a cafe or see how many dogs we can pet in the park. I'd probe gently and watch her reactions, but when I find that she's ok with sharing things about herself, not judgemental and willing to listen, then I'd open up too.

We'd probably end up talking about work, life, family. I'm assuming the 'other me' would have grown up in a different environment (ie. not a complete clone of me) and so we'd have different perspectives, which would be fascinating.

I think I'd really love her. Even though she was a girl, I'd probably fall in love and want to be her best friend forever.

Maybe a month in, I'd get scared. I'd start wondering, what if she has some huge flaw that would blow this apart: what if she's a gambling addict, an abusive person, a dog-torturer, a slaver.... And what if I'm stuck with her for the rest of my life?

At this point I'd probably drop all contact and tell her, I need time alone.

The thing is, I know that no one is perfect. Even if she isn't the next Hitler, she'll definitely have flaws, some of which would drive me crazy. Maybe she thinks that she's better than everyone else. Maybe she likes shouting in my ear, or gets furious when I don't reply within the day. Maybe she has terrible breath. I know this, and I'm not saying I'm looking for someone perfect.

I guess I'm just too caught up dealing with my own flaws and insecurities. How can I add on someone else's? I probably should look outside myself: most likely sharing my life with someone else isn't counterproductive to becoming a better person.

I have no idea what happens after my 'break'. I might call her. She might call me. We might never talk again...