Temporary by Design

I wrote a story about a man in search of real connection. But I still wonder if it’s a reflection of me. The character uses temporary relationships and artificial intimacy to avoid vulnerability. Like him, I've spent my adult life struggling to form lasting romantic connections. There are a million reasons why: fear of rejection, comfort in solitude, reluctance to commit.  

In a world where physical connection becomes a substitute for emotional intimacy, I question if temporary relationships act as shields against our deepest insecurities. Certainly, they protect us from vulnerability. So, what is it that stops us from finding connection? Does it come from questions like: Is there something broken in me? The real question should be: Is this a problem to be solved, or a pattern to be understood?

The path of life can teach us to find comfort in solitude, to recognize that being alone doesn't mean being incomplete. If you're lucky enough, you learn to fall in love with yourself first - not as a consolation prize, but as the foundation for any meaningful connection with others.