When I was a child, I loved playing with Barbie dolls. With their long-legged-scissor-like movements, luxurious hair, and 200-watt smile, they were ideal. Well, except for one thing: Why did Barbie ever like Ken?



Ken was not my type of guy. I appreciated that he took life with a smile, despite his anatomy, which is commendable. He also seemed stagnant, cheesy, and unrealistic. I knew even at that young age, men like Ken were the most impossible in the world.



As I grew older, I became increasingly interested in comic books. My older brother would let me tag along to comic book conventions where I would buy Catwoman, Batman and more. When I read about Batman, he looked a little like Ken, but was different. He had the good looks, suave mannerisms, a comfortable life, and as an added bonus, was smart and resourceful. Although I thought boys had cooties around that time, I knew men similar to Bruce Wayne were a-okay, but still not so tangible.

Then, as a teenager I discovered Marvel's Amazing Spiderman. Here was a guy who had the weight of the world on his shoulders, geeky glasses, and no girlfriend. Not only did I relate to Peter Parker's problems, but he slowly became the apple of my eye. This was the type of guy I wanted, and he wasn't that bad looking either [geek chic anyone?]. Sure, he didn't have it all together like Batman, and certainly didn't take life with a smile like Ken, but he was full of life. Peter Parker was real, imperfect, and completely irresistible.



I know that for many guys, they look up to those I mentioned as archetypes of what women want. The truth is, flaws are attractive. From Ken to Bruce to Peter, there is a commonality: A positive attitude. Regardless of the whole womens movement thing, ladies still want a guy who they can lean on. Someone who has real issues and can handle them with conviction.

As for me, I am still trying to learn from Barbie, Catwoman, and Mary Jane--the ladies who to some extent got these different types of men. Sure, they all look picture perfect, but I believe there is more to them than that. Now, who wants to brush my hair and take me to kick boxing?