Adobe GIllis

I think its better that you have chosen to not be in a relationship until you view people differently. Try talking to a child about something simple...look at how beautiful a young child can be...they're really adorable and innocent. When you see the beauty of a human being instead of focusing on the decay, you'll be able to understand why relationships are important. Steer clear of romantic relationships until you are ready for mutual respect/kindness.

No doubt. HAHAHA! I have learned to avoid that situation a little while back. Ever since I have decided to do so I have felt like a large burden has lifted. Seriously. Sure, sometimes I feel the societal pressures to be a "married suburban 30-something" but I quickly snap back to reality.

As for kids? Still haven't sold me on 'em.

Back to topic...

I noticed that some of you had moved around alot as a child. Do you feel that this can enhance or be a detriment to your sociability? I had to as a kid and I really had no problem making new friends, but I think that did contribute to my detachment of others. I met an army brat in college and she had the same sentiments about others too If you are there, fine, if not, oh well..." She wasn't shy per se, but she was kind of phony (not a liar, but "staged"). I feel that way when interacting face-to-face. I guess it helps overcome the shyness by making a mask. Better than staying holed-up all the time.

I am an only child. Always been kind of solitary, but I did have friends as a child and in High School. In college, I had many fairweathers and since grad school I still remain chums with some colleagues.

As for my parentals, my dad died when I was 9. He was a P/V/E abusive alcoholic. I was quite relieved upon his death. Still am. My mother is a cold person, but she raised me until I left for school at 19. She had alienated us from our extended family for really oblique reasons. She was not really possessive and let me do what I wanted (I was a "Latch-key") but she made frequently poor decisions.

I have been Dx'd Schizoid Personality type. I don't quite agree with this, because I do have some desires to be around people and I would in some cases like to change my solitude. I also have dated and lived with others, although I did not care for the experiences. I have also held socially-oriented jobs and did well at them.

However, I have little care for marriage and I don't like children. An ex of mine even joked that I was "Kind of autistic". My relationships usually fail because I lack empathy and romance. I also date trashy women because they are easy. No kidding. They come to me, so I don't really have to do any work at it. So therein, the relationship is doomed from the get go. I guess I subconsciously desire this end. Most people are elated when they have a new significant, but I tend to avoid her at first. Unfortunately, this makes me a "Challenge" and I wind up getting roped in until she dumps me or I dump her because I can't tolerate an attribute I find to be a "hassle" to my lifestyle.

Yep, I'm a screwed-up dude.