I remember many years ago at a family dinner, where everyone at the table was coupled—except for the little kids and me. As we ate and socialized, my adorable five-year-old niece asked, loud enough for everyone to hear, “Hey Aunt Michele, who do you belong to?” I looked at her, puzzled, and she insisted, “Who do you belong to? Who’s your person?” I knew exactly what she meant, and so did everyone else at the table, all eyes now on me. I felt a flush of embarrassment, not from the question itself, but from the sudden attention. It was like being on a game show with only seconds to answer.
I replied, “I belong to me… and to you, of course!” I tried to brush it off with humor, but she wasn’t convinced. With a flip of her little head, she said, “You need to find someone soon.” Thanks, kid. Thanks for reminding me I was flying solo tonight. And to think, I was going to leave her my vintage Easy-Bake oven—she blew it.
That moment hit me harder than I expected. It left me with the uncomfortable feeling that others might think being single means being alone. I see them as two very different things, but at that table, it seemed like people were merging the two. I almost felt pitied. Even a five-year-old had been indoctrinated to believe that being single meant being alone. It’s a message we learn early: if you’re single, you’re alone. But the truth is, I never feel uncomfortable in my single time. I have friends I love spending time with, family that provides a sense of belonging (most of the time, anyway…lol), and hobbies that keep me fulfilled. I have a career that keeps me busy, and when time allows, I truly enjoy my solo time. That said, it would be nice to meet someone special. I’ve met a few, but lately, it’s been a solo flight—and that’s okay.
Love is truly all around. It’s in the beauty of the snow I’m anticipating tonight. It’s in the devotion of my trusty Corgi, Gus. It’s in the security and warmth of my home, the phone call from a childhood friend earlier, the dinner shared with my family this weekend, the satisfaction of my work, and even the neighbor who stopped by today with a gift she made for me. By the way, can you hear the background music from a 50’s Broadway musical? Listen, I’m not being overly optimistic, but I’m choosing to focus on all the forms of love around me, rather than getting lost in the darkness of social media. Sure, the love of a romantic partner is delicious, but don’t let the temporary absence of it make you miss all the other kinds of love swirling around you.
Okay, gotta go—it’s time for my mani-pedi while I sip dark chocolate cocoa with extra whipped cream. Yup, they actually serve cocoa at this place.
Mmmm, love really is everywhere.
One20 Tuesday 