Thinking of an office romance

Dear Brian,
I have been working in this company for three months. During this time I have been introduced by my IT Manager to various departments within the company as the new recruit with EDP Division. We work closely with the Sales and Marketing people, and every fortnight have brain storming sessions to keep abreast of latest developments in our business dealings. It was in one of these sessions that I was introduced to one of the Sales Executives. Brian (by co-incidence) is in his late twenties and has been with the company for 2 years. He is jolly and seem to get along with everyone. He has this college fraternity air about him that makes everyone laugh a little whenever he is around. We often bump into each other within the office corridors and cordially acknowledge each other with the usual salutations.

However, last month I received a very peculiar e-mail that was a poem written by him (unfortunately it has since been deleted). The content expressed his dismay with the terrorist attacks and he seemed saddened by the events. In reply, I jested about his brilliant artistic inclinations and insinuated that he probably copied the poem from the walls of the Men's restroom. He seemed hurt by the insensitivity of my remarks. After that incident, whenever in my presence, he would be withdrawn. Our usual corridor encounters would be met with just a nod. Because of the awkwardness, I would choose to distance myself whenever the occasion arises (within the same room, during meetings etc).

But just last week, I received another poem from him:

"Never say I love you
If you don't really care
Never talk of feelings
If they aren't really there
Never hold my hand
If you meant to break my heart
Never say forever
If you ever plan to part
Never look into my eyes
If you are telling me a lie
Never say hello
If you think you'll say goodbye
Never say that I'm the one
If you dream of more than me
Never lock up my heart
If you don't have the key."

I have yet to reply, but I must confess that I am intrigued. After reading his current poem, I could not stop thinking about him. My mind wanders to future developments with this relationship and the adventures yet to be accomplished by the two of us. My best pal has reminded me that office romance is not to be encouraged. I feel otherwise. Kindly advise and thank you.

Regards,
- Thinking of an office romance

Dear Thinking,
I agree with your best pal. An office romance is a minefield of potential problems (see my recent article, "Romance in the Workplace"), but our hearts often overrule our heads. Since you and your poetry writing suitor seem to work in different departments, you may be able to prevent your romantic life from interfering with your professional responsibilities. The most recent poem he sent you expresses feelings so heartfelt and intimate that he clearly wants something more from you than friendship. As long as your feelings for him are as strong, reply to his poem, perhaps with one of your own in which you respond to each line, affirming that, yes, you do feel the same. Wait for his response and take it from there. But be aware of the pitfalls that come when you mix business with pleasure, and be prepared to sacrifice one for the other if necessary.

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