by Patrick Sills

Created on: February 26, 2009

In a proportionally large number of cases and situations, nice guys indeed finish last. For quite some time, many cultures have slowly evolved into a less-refined social order. Looser moral standards and a relaxed set of ethics increasingly define the mindset of our species to that of a "Winner takes all, damn the consequences" philosophy.

With each day that passes, fewer and fewer people remain encased within the figurative bubble of a strict upbringing. The representation, the aura, of the "bad boy" becomes intriguing to the female gender. The individual naturally emits an air of mystery and hence an irresistible fascination takes hold as an entire roomful of captivated women swoon to absorb very word he utters. Perhaps he dons an array of tattoos and multiple body piercings, which suggest a rebel at heart. A history of run-ins with the law further enhances the mystique. Before long, it becomes second nature to see such a renegade surrounded by women. Such happenings can be observed every day; especially in (but certainly not limited to) low-income settings.

Should the interested party get too immersed in her fantasy, the tendency to acquire traits of submissiveness is realized. In the event a relationship forms, this can lend itself to a disastrous outcome and scar a person for life. The "nice guy" still waiting in the wings never stood a chance, and now the physically or emotionally injured female regrets her choice. Unfortunately, like a losing football coach seated in a press conference explaining his team's misfortune, all of the "should haves," "would haves," and "could haves" won't undo the damage. Worse yet, the cycle will recur over and over again while the nice guys continue to never have the need to have any bed larger than the twin-sized variety.

For all intents and purposes, it would seem that those who fall into the "nice guy" category are destined to be everyone's lovable "big brother" or sweet buddy. Oftentimes, the women they befriend are left unaware of this person's true feelings towards them, and in the rare instances when this stance is brought to the forefront; it's too late because the lady is already spoken for. Yes, men can be timid, too. As a result, this succession of scenarios also repeats itself as if it were a syndicated rerun of Gilligan's Island.

Sadly, most "nice guys" eventually settle on a companion who will fall short of their expectations, for otherwise they will remain alone. But for a few; and very few, holding out for the perfect soul mate will have its rewards. For this small handful of individuals, they have truly finished last. But you know what they say, don't you?

Good things come to those who wait.

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