What I Learned From My Ex

Five guys recount one thing they learned from a past love.

by Rajul Punjabi

“Bargain shopping! I used to spend a ton of money in malls. Now it’s DSW for shoes and outlet malls for clothes. She helped me spend my money a little more wisely.”

–Thomas, 27, construction management consultant

“I used to drip water all over the floor after showering. My ex explained how to brush off my body before I grabbed a towel. I even shared the ‘Jessica Dry Brush’ with my nieces and nephews.”

–Andrew, 34, project manager

“She introduced me to The Nile, a Middle Eastern restaurant in New Jersey where singers and belly dancers perform. I still go with my friends.”

–Sharbel, 24, financial planner

“The night before I took the LSATs, she gave me No. 2 pencils that were already sharpened, then dulled down, so I could fill in the bubbles quicker. That was incredibly thoughtful.”
–Ryan, 22, neuro-science student

“Reggae. I used to listen to [Bob] Marley on my own, but she and her brothers got me into esoteric reggae like Black Uhuru and Sizzla. I still listen to it.”
–Anuj, 29, psychiatrist