Growing older together in Thailand ...

[bobsaigon2]

Joe, I am reminded of the teachings of the nuns and brothers. Their implication, or at least our inference, being that the celibate, religious life was the best choice. If you couldn’t handle that, then OK, get married. And if that wouldn’t work for you, there was always the “single vocation”. Despite my own committed partnership, I admit that there are days when I favor the “single vocation”, and on any day, I think the order of preferences should be reversed: single – married – religious life.

Having enjoyed a life on one’s own, it is certainly not an easy matter to introduce another body, another personality, into one’s living space and mind space. For some, a partnership just wouldn’t be suitable. Simple as that.

[joe552]

When I was a teenager, I thought about becoming a missionary priest. Obviously, I didn't and realised that it was really a desire to travel and get away from Dublin. My time with the UN in Lebanon provided an opening into the world I craved. bob, I don't know if I'd go so far as to say I've "enjoyed" a life on my own, but that's the reality and I live with it.

[gerefan2]

Having enjoyed a life on one’s own, it is certainly not an easy matter to introduce another body, another personality, into one’s living space and mind space. For some, a partnership just wouldn’t be suitable. Simple as that.

I believe it is very simple. I’ve always lived alone and wouldn’t have it any other way.

If, however, you have had a partner for some time then it is probably very difficult to change to living alone.

It all depends on your background.

And make no mistake, living alone does NOT mean being lonely.

Two totally different things.

[a447]

And is you live alone long enough, there comes a time when you no longer want to live with someone.

If you are living by yourself and feeling lonely, then you are doing something wrong. You need to join a club or some other organisation where you can meet lots of people.

Years ago, after I moved back to Australia, I joined a gourmet club - although I'd hardly describe myself as a gourmet. We'd eat out 3 or 4 times a week, then sit around and discuss the meal. I loved the company, the food (most of the time) and the ensuing discussion.

It was one of the best decisions I've made.

[joe552]

I suppose I am lonely, but I've gotten used to it. I'm not a "joiner" (as in clubs and such) though that's the advice everyone gives me.