Some guys need a stern talking to from an older sister. Others need the stamp of approval from their buddies. But former Daily Show Producer Ben Karlin wanted an omen in nature to tell him girlfriend Paola was the one.

So he set about getting one. In the closest thing to a chivalric quest we've seen in modern times, Karlin enrolled in a potentially dangerous and definitely dignity-risking expedition in Mexico. Here's how he describes it:

"In a move cribbed from a mid-career Billy Crystal vehicle, I signed up for an Outward Bound Wilderness Program - a seven-day backcountry camping and sea-kayaking trip in Baja California, Mexico."

Amid learning backcountry camping techniques and kayaking rescue maneuvers, Karlin hoped to cure his cold feet and find the epiphany he needed to make an honest woman of his lady love.

His monogamy muse came in the form of an orange flickering light, a hint of sunset that came after the end of a terrifying night alone in a tent in the wilderness with no food and minimal provisions. Karlin went home and proposed to Paolo, satisfied that he had finished his quest. It's not quite dragon slaying, but for a Manhattan dweller who writes for one of the world's most cynical comedy shows, we'd say it's pretty dang close.

Congrats to the happy couple!

These Personalized Rubber Grip 13-Function Army Knife would make great wedding or groomsmen gifts to remind Karlin of his brush with adventure!

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