Odd. I always thought it was all about teem. *grin*.

Very interesting thoughts. While I am even more accute in my inability to feign liking someone, I still care a lot about what others think of me. There's something I'd like to be able to pick up from you.

Thank you again for thinking that I have an "admirable quality," though I still disagree. I am too much of a "pleaser" sometimes, and it's no secret that I worry *entirely* too much about what people think. Though my parents definitely raised me to have confidence in my own self, I just don't. I hate that.

Yes, rappy, it's supposed to be all about ME. But nooooooooo, it's not, as usual. Woe is me. What have a done to deserve this neglect? Tell me, what? Whaaaaaaaaat!?

I think that it is fine to derive self esteem internally, rather than relying on others to provide your self-worth. In fact I think that is the best way to be. External motivation is what drives 30 year old women to feel like failures if they are unmarried. If your sense of self worth is determined by who is in your life then it can come crumbling down when a relationship ends. If your self worth is determined by who you are then the end of a relationship will be sad, but not completely devastating.

I also have a small circle of friends rather than a large number of aquaintances. I like it that way. If you are a member of that circle I will do anything for you. I don't have the time or energy to devote to people that I don't particularly care for. If that limits my social opportunities, then so be it. I enjoy spending time alone - sometimes more than spending time with others. It is healthy to be able to spend time alone. I know quite a few people who are absolutely terrified of spending any time alone. I feel very sad for them. How can you know yourself if you don't spend any time with yourself?