It seems like every time I am reunited with an old friend or a family member, their first concern is my relationship status. Not my education, new friends, new town, new job… the first question is always “have you met anyone yet?”. For some reason, it is ludicrous that I am choosing to spend the prime of my life learning about myself and exploring every opportunity I can get my hands on.

I have been raised in a time that individuality is crucial in forming an identity. My parents’ generation was raised completely different. My mom spent her youth dreaming about becoming a housewife someday. While her dreams completely opposed mine, I still credit the weight they held in her life. Yet for some reason, no one can grasp the concept that my dreams do not require a sidekick, especially at this point in my life. There is an entire world full of people out there for me to explore, why make hunting a guy down in Grand Rapids a priority?

I am not lonely, I am self-exploring. Unlike most people my age, I know exactly who I am and what I stand for. Yes, getting to this point may have taken distancing myself, but it has been so worth it. I have found friends who share the same wild outlook on life, and others willing to accept it. I am confident in my opinions and decisions; I do not need someone support it.

Someday, I may find someone who sweeps me off my feet, and I look forward to it. But this is the time of my life to keep falling in love with myself, and making sure I get everything from this life it has to offer.