Very good point. I do realize most(friends & family) want only the best for me. However, none are introverted and nary a one's track record suggests they could cope outside of an intimate relationship for any length of time. We have differing needs and wants. Only recently has my mother has realized I am being genuine when I say, "alone does not necessarily mean lonely". I am generous and trusting to a fault, I empathize deeply and I abbhor asserting my will upon others(and detest others' will forced upon me). Yes, my professional and social life have suffered(sic)for it, according to their standards... which are pretty mainstream. However, I AM happy alone, I am better alone & while I do enjoy contact(and am quite charismatic), it is work for me. I don't 'network', I don't participate in group activities & I avoid crowds... not b/c I'm scared or unable, it is work, and it is not enjoyable. I am solo, I am celibate by choice and I make just enough to not be a burden on others. Just because I could make several factors more income, I could get laid any day of the week(not bragging, I used to... a lot) and I could manipulate those who are drawn to my odd persona, it doesn't mean I should do those things. I ENJOY less in almost every facet of my life, it is how I cope with being overwhelmed or stressed out(both come quite easily for me).