“So are you dating anyone?” It is wild to me that this is one of the first questions people want to know about me. I have a career I love, an amazing community of friends, a new kitten and that is still not enough for some people. You’re pitied until you have a partner- viewed as lacking in some way. When I say “no” then the response is “don’t worry, it will happen when you least expect it!” but why does it have to happen at all? I think I’m most frustrated by the idea that to be truly successful you must find lasting romantic love when for some people, their families or incredibly fulfilling platonic relationships or career and pets are enough. I’m still working on my response to these questions but dont know how we change the thinking of society as a whole… and when did this thinking start to happen? Wishing all of you luck this holiday season!