As many of you know, I have been a single parent for a long time. I’m into it, as a friend of mine would say. I am not a social recluse and I do get out and about and have a life. However, there probably isn’t a week that goes by that someone doesn’t ask me something like: “Are you seeing anyone?” or “Anything new in the romance department?” or “Aren’t you getting out there and looking?” I get it from friends, family, co-workers, even my mother cannot resist asking me once a month or so. I am not hiding out, but I am not really looking or searching either. What is so wrong with a single parent who is NOT looking?
I suppose I wouldn’t second-guess myself at all if it weren’t for the other people in my life who keep asking (let that be a lesson to those of you who do this—stop asking!!! People will tell you when they start seeing someone and they certainly don’t need to be queried and reminded every time you see them that they need to “get with it”). The fact is, I am NOT looking. I am not hiding or saying “no” to invitations and such either, but I am definitely not considering every trip to the mall or grocery store as a potential opportunity to meet a future mate. I don’t look over everyone on line at the bank or the post office either and hope to strike up a fateful conversation.
I really don’t care if everyone I’ve ever been involved with has found someone else by now (some while I thought I was still seeing them)—it isn’t a race as far as I’ve concerned. I don’t need to be told that I am “just too picky” or reminded that I am “not getting any younger.” I also don’t need to be told that my “best years are behind me.” I am a happy, content, fulfilled single parent, and I confess that I am just NOT looking!
Also: When Your KIDS Think You Should “Find Someone”
If I’m Not Partnered, Why Don’t I Feel Single?
Where Does “Social Life” Fit in Your Priorities