Alan and Melissa have lived together for 10 years and previously had several sessions of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy together. Here’s the scene they created one evening over dinner in which they debated whether or not they should continue living together.
The bustling city of Manhattan had settled into its evening lull as they make their way to their favorite French bistro in the West Village. In the past year, they’d developed a special tradition: Once a month, over a dinner well lubricated with a good Château La Clarière, they engage in a spirited debate about whether they should stay or not stay together.
Seated at their usual table, Alan pours the ruby-red wine into their glasses, sets his glass down and straightens in his chair. Ladies and gentlemen, the question before us tonight, he intones, clearly relishing his role, is: Should Alan and Melissa stay together?
Alan argues in the affirmative because following the English rules of debate, the affirmative gets to have the first and last word and Alan just loves to have the last word in his discussions with Melissa.
He begins: First, we have ten years of shared history, a foundation that can’t easily be replicated. We’ve faced challenges together and became stronger each time. Second, our complementary strengths make us a formidable team. My sense of adventure and your steadfastness create a balance that helps both of us. Lastly, our love for each other is solid and deep, a testament to our commitment and compatibility.
Melissa takes a sip of her wine, gathering her thoughts, and replies: Ladies and gentlemen, while Alan makes a compelling case, I must point out that staying together may not be in our best interests. First, our constant debates – his yearning for adventure and my desire for security – though intellectually stimulating, highlight underlying issues of control and communication that often bug me. Second, our differing life goals create tension that can’t easily be ignored. Lastly, the question of whether comfort has replaced genuine passion in our relationship looms large. She meets Alan’s gaze, her expression challenging: Back to the Affirmative, if he’s up to it.
Alan can’t suppress a grin. He loves Melissa’s fierce intelligence and the way she challenges him. In response he points out: Our debates are really a special form of connection. They keep us engaged and allow us to address issues head-on. Our differing goals are not just a source of tension, they allow us to grow as different parts of us rub off on the other. And of course our love-making speaks for itself. Alan then toasts Melissa undressing her with his eyes.
Melissa smiles, her eyes now glowing with desire and whispers: You win, now take me home, immediately!
