Is race really a factor? O . o [Gomen for ranting]

I think I'm pretty blind to that, though I've only dated one person outside my race (the black hair, green eyes, pale skin combination just calls to me, lol). My mother and grandmother are pretty conservative about that sort of thing, but my mom has relaxed over the years about it. My grandmother...not so much. I think that despite what anyone says, appearance almost always has a huge role in initial attraction. Unless you're blind. Either way, while looks have importance, it's the individual that reigns supreme in these sorts of things. Sure, there might be a thinner, girl with the same personality right next to you, but....she isn't YOU. And in the long run, that's what counts.