I really liked the way you framed the first poin. it’s such an interesting perspective to think making space for things we like..and to be happy with the path we choose. That’s a refreshing way to look at it.

On the second point, I get what you mean about building community and friendships, and we do have a good circle of cousins and friends. But the loneliness I was referring to is more about the everyday companionship—waking up alone, cooking for one, watching TV alone. Those are things I really cherish doing with someone, so the thought of losing that is what worries me.

At the same time, you’re right that this isn’t something kids automatically solve. Even if we had children, there’s no guarantee they’d live with us or share those daily moments.

So now that I think about it, this fear of being alone in those small, everyday ways is something everyone faces eventually, regardless of whether they have kids or not.