What qualities make a guy "special" in your eyes? Is it just some weird chemical reaction of instant attraction, or is it something more?

It's more than that.

I can be attracted to somebody off the bat, that's simple chemistry. That doesn't last very long though, so I need somebody that will talk *to* me as opposed to talking *at* me. I don't care if it's about science, design, feminism, stripping, or my love of things that sparkle....I just need to have somebody that engages in real conversation. Even if we don't agree on everything, I need a person that can communicate well.

I want to be treated like a person, not a prize to be won or a trophy. I can be a handful sometimes (normally when I'm really sick), so I need somebody strong enough to take the good with the bad, and respect and care about me even when I can't get out of bed for days at a time. Patience....I need it.

And the most important thing is respect. For me, the people around me, and the world in general. If I'm on a date and my date is rude/mean to the waitress, especially when they are only trying to do their job, I'm done.

You've got a question? Maybe I've got an answer..