Alistair,

My father-in-law-to-be, otherwise a reasonable guy, wants me to bring him a Phoenix feather to prove that I’m worthy of his daughter’s hand in marriage. I fail to see exactly why bringing feathers shows that I’m good husband material, but I’m willing to play along. Any advice?

Catching Fire in Nebraska

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Catching,

Your failure to understand your future father-in-law’s intended point here is due to the fact that you know little of his daughter, little of phoenix feathers, or know little of either. 

You need to be okay with getting burned, is what he’s saying. 

So since you’re asking for advice, take the time to evaluate your commitment to this relationship.

Alistair