I'm 61 and recently retired. I've pretty much seen it all. Been married, lived with women, dated them and overall had quite a number of long-term monogamous relationships (many of them before the internet).

One of the most empowering discoveries I've made in life is realizing solitude isn't the big boogeyman we've been told it is since we're able to crawl.

In fact, after enough time passes living alone, you come to realize Solitude isn't only healthy, it's quite enjoyable and empowering. I can't recall how many times--after going out with friends, family, or, just coming home from work (or from my Girlfriend's place)--the immense relief, happiness and freedom Solitude brings:

If I want silence, I have silence.

If I want to crank up the heavy metal when I work out, I crank up the heavy metal.

If I want to sit in my skivvies in front of the computer, I sit in my skivvies.

If I want to leave a few dishes in the sink, I leave a few dishes in the sink. (I'll get to them when I choose to get to them).

The list is endless...

NOTE: I've been bitched at by ex's for all the above...

My Dream:

I wish every young man would live alone for at least a couple years...to work through the initial erroneous fear of being "lonely" and come to realize how awesome Solitude can be. I realize this may be quite difficult--initially--for men raised in big families. However, I still believe given enough time living alone--with enough outside friendships, interests, hobbies, work, etc.--Solitude becomes your rejuvenating friend , your empowering ally. You retreat to your fortress of solitude to recharge your soul and de-frag your brain. Achieving this state gives a man a whole different perspective on life and relationships.

Once you realize your doing just fine when being alone, you truly feel free. The world is your oyster. No fear.