Dear Diary,
It's hard to meet friends when we've all been isolated for so long. I think it's weird, anyway, that adults don't even seem to like making new friends. Most people prefer to just stagnate in their social comfort zone.
I moved to a new place, because I needed to. I don't know anyone here. I tried bringing my next door nieghbors a plant, but they had no interest.
So, I'm on these apps to meet friends. And I see people talking about the sad losers on these apps. How awkward and desperate they must be. Yet society creates desperation by gatekeeping relationships. If you haven't had the same friendships since you were in middle school, you're kind of up a creek.
I've taken classes, spent time in gyms, and tried to join a local club (They were not just unwelcoming to me, but to other people I saw trying to join as well.) So, I don't think the issue is that I'm unlikable, but that people become closed off as we get older. So, yes, I'm on the apps, to meet the few people who care about making friends.
People need new friends at any age. You move, you need friends. You divorce, and suddenly find all your friends were your spouse's friends. Your kids grow up, and you realize you were so involved in their social lives, you no longer know who you are. Those are the stories I hear the most. I know some people really don't need more friends. My husband is that way. I'm enough for him, he says. But, I can't make him carry the burden of all the friendship I need. And I have a lot to offer as a loyal and supportive friend to others. I think my situation is sadly very common.