bangerog2,

Thanks for your post.. You kinda touched on what I was thinking about...

Since my separation and divorce 7 years ago, I have lived by the belief that "I would rather be lonely alone, than lonely with someone else"... I have been there... done that (for far toooo long) and have no desire to endure that again...

That said...

It isn't that simple.

NO relationship is perfect... and even those that are in abusive relationships find a reason to stay...

Yes, it is true; being ALONE has NOTHING to do with loneliness. However, being alone automatically eliminates the prospects of fulfilling the sexual needs that one has. YES, masturbation IS a wonderful thing¡K BUT.. that does fall short. I honestly don¡¦t believe that SEX alone (or lack there of) results in loneliness. As it has been pointed out numerous times, SEX can be found (if only a one night stand). Truth be known, being in a relationship offers more than just SEX¡K it offers a sounding board¡K and a great source of emotional support.

Although I still hold on to the thought of never wanting to be lonely WITH someone, without the other aspects that relationships offer, being alone can get rather lonely. As I said before it has NOTHING to do with SEX itself¡K batteries handle that pretty damn well (Thanks go to the Energizer Bunny) BUT.. The other things¡K the conversation¡K the emotional support¡K the occasional hug and encouragement¡K that is what continues to allow loneliness to seep through.