Of course...
For me personally, there are many reasons, which I’m happy to share, in no particular order of importance...
This place was my first experience with on-line and an on-line community... so one could say that in a sense, I was “raised” here. You name it... I have seen it... or experienced it... or heard it.
After a while, it becomes... mundane. I don’t say this to be hurtful or egotistical. I say this because it’s simply my truth.
And yes... I’ve heard the “if you don’t want to be social, why be here?” Much like I was told that if I didn’t drink, why go to a pub.
Well... just because I don’t wish to partake like everyone else does... doesn’t mean I don’t still get something nourishing from the experience of simply being there. I love to offer support and encouragement within the levels of my capabilities.
Also, I have absolutely no qualms with showing interest in someone if it exists... in fact... when I find a man I want to belong to... I am more than willing to throw myself at his mercy. That’s how it works for me. I am simply not interested in men who approach me. Dissect that as you will
Also, I do not require the (secret) ego boost from having unwanted attention knocking on my door... so for those wolves... I simply removed the knocker :b
There’s also the vulnerability of boundaries. I’m very protective of my self and my boundaries. I see this really as simply a boundary. I don’t flaunt it. It allows me to quietly maintain control over who I allow into my space.
I’m also simply not good at giving people the attention they want from me. This always leads to them feeling like not enough, and me feeling miserable for making them feel that way because of my own shortcomings. I am simply not capable of “spreading myself around” or really even sitting still long enough to have a conversation.
So I save us all the hassle of time wasted or awkwardness... and I simply hang a Do Not Disturb Sign on my door. I think that sends a very clear message to everyone equally
I’m not denying the fact that I use this as a tool to help where I am in my journey at this time. I am not confident in my boundaries yet, and I am also not confident in my abilities of friendship. It’s definitely a form of self-protection. One that I am very grateful for. It allows me to come here and enjoy this place for the reasons I come here... to connect... in a way that feels safe for me.
I hope this explanation helps your understanding a bit more