“May I Kiss You”

By: Danielle Cort
Posted In: News

On October 12, 2005, Michael Domitrz, author of “May I Kiss You” and editor of

“Voices of Courage,” left the Salve and Newport community questioning the one fundamental that people believe they know everything about dating and romance.

Domitrz, a national speaker who addresses important issues such as

sexual awareness, consent, and date rape, gave a powerful performance that literally left students at the edge of their seats.

Using humor and tragedy, Domitrz opened our eyes to something that

often goes unnoticed. “When was the last time you asked for a kiss? Did you think you even had to?” Domitrz asked the audience. It was these questions that left the audience in laughter, confusion, and agreement.

Ultimately, everyone realized, if they hadn’t already, that we have the privilege of choice. We have the strength to say no, the ability to say yes, and an obligation to respect that.

During the performance, Domitrz often involved the students, which transformed his ideas into reality.

Body language – What exactly does a hand on the knee mean? Does every guy expect a little “act” when a girl leans in closer to him?

Conversation – When a guy “sweet talks” you, is he for real?

Sincerity – Do you know if your date remembers your name?

These simple, every day actions are really big, trivial things that just remain misunderstood.

We’re all afraid of rejection and nobody wants to feel weak. Domitrz makes the point that as long as we continue to be silent and scared, we’ll never truly appreciate a person that asks to be with us. Nothing is more romantic than knowing exactly how somebody feels – especially when that feeling is about you.

Beyond the hype of first dates, make-out sessions, and awkward silences, Domitrz also brings to life the pain and suffering that only respect can eliminate.

In 1989, his sister became a victim of sexual assault. Now, Domitrz celebrates the fact that she is a survivor.

He makes it clear that sometimes “No” just isn’t enough. It is the “asking” that defines the action – nothing else.

Everyone is capable of making a choice. Sometimes, it is those choices that make our dates more magical.