Being curious, learning from all of our experiences, is one of our most pleasing traits as human beings. In this series we examine particular facets of ourselves and, with the aid of many classic authors, delve into characters and stories that not only entertain us, but inform us on how short stories can help us both deal and understand issues that touch and weave into our lives with the words and narratives of many wise talents. Even in these more modern times not everyone is free to choose their partners. Nations, cultures and religions around the globe are not as inclusive as we are and we think they should be. With the insight and talents of these classic authors we are shown that even in quite recent times choice in marriage was, in essence, in the gift of others.