'It's ok, you're sooo busy'

So, I have a thought...

After a long summer of the usual soul searching I've decided to give up relationships. This may come to a surprise to many because I've always been the 'relationship type.' I love love. I love being in love and going on dates and all that. But the thing is that ship has sailed. There have been times in the past where I've been single and while it has been by choice I still was open to the idea of a relationship. Gone are those days.

What really gets me going though is people's reaction to this. Instead of getting any sort of feedback, I hear others' justifications. You know, the ones that people use when they want a relationship but haven't found Mr. Right (Now). 'Oh, well you're in law school, you're so busy anyway.' There's also, 'Well, when I gave up on men, that's when I met my boyfriend/fiancee/husband.'

NO PEOPLE! You are missing the point! I simply do not want a boyfriend. I want to do as I please and not worry about another person: about the hurt I might cause them and the hurt he might cause me. Is there something so wrong with that? I guess that's what gets me thinking. For one, why is it that guys can enjoy being single, never pursuing a relationship and no one will second guess them and determine that deep down they really want one and are just copping out by saying they don't? No one tries to appease them by justifying it? Why is it a given that women need an excuse if they are not playing the field? God forbid we as women choose to enjoy the single life, you know?!

I came to this decision not for a lack of prospects but FOR ME. I'm not looking for sympathy. Shoot, even a little praise might be appropriate! When a person finally comes to what they really want in life and she believes it is the best thing for her I think support is the best reaction to have. People too easily let their own perceptions get in the way of understanding others' search for happiness.

And I am happy. :-)