Do You Think You're Better Off Alone?
Actually, yes.

I'm just not a people person. Doesn't that sound strange? It doesn't mean I have a desire for anyone's death or such, but I simply enjoy the company of myself over others' a considerable amount of the time.

90% of the time I prefer to be left undistrubed, to my own thoughts and meanderings, just doing what I want. As another day draws later, I review what I've accomplished so far. I stayed up the entire night, made myself presentable, got dropped off at the movie theatre at 11:20, read for a spell, went to see "Nutty Professor II: The Klumps," went to the drug store across a small, grassy knob, slept through three-fourths of "Space Cowboy," received a ride home, ate dinner, and now am writing this before I prepare to go out yet again to see the movie "Loser." And not once this day have I felt the least bit lonely.

Instead, I indulge myself with books--I carry a novel with me into the theatre and read until the previews start. I splurge on a Smackers' Dr. Pepper lip balm, even though I hate the soda, just for the heck of it. Walking around under the blue sky is not solitary, it is simply quiet.

At breakneck speed, four girls in tight capris, tank tops, backless shirts, and other summer fare turn the corner to face me. They can't be older than fourth grade. Their voices are the most noticable thing; they keep up a conversation at rapid fire. I smile to myself, they continue by. Jealous? No. I am free to do what I want.

'Free to do what I want'--there are not happier words to a teen. Do I want to stay and catch "What Lies Beneath" directly after "The Klumps" or should I go and spend some cash on a real lunch at the Chili's in the same plaza? Should I ask to be seated at one of the outdoor tables at the pub and simply order a Coke? Or should I go to the well-supplied drugstore and stroll down the frigid asles?

If you've never spent a day to yourself in a public place, I suggest it. It's wonderful--you answer to no one. If you're sick of a store or item, you can leave without asking. You can do what you want. And you don't have to feel rude if you don't want to strike up a conversation. And when a guilty pleasure song like "One Night In Bangkok" comes on 'Movie Tunes,' you can bop your little head along without embarssing anyone.

Ninety percent of the time--if not more--I prefer my own mentally made witty remarks to the continious laughter of friends. There are many things I enjoy more by myself--writing in my journal or writing in general; reading; using the restroom; the movies; trying on clothing; strolling down the beach; wandering through stores for fun; boutiquing. It's not that I don't have friends or don't apprecaite them, nor am I a 'loner.' I enjoy the freedom and added responsibilty of being in control of my choices and my life. And if my friends wouldn't enjoy seeing "Loser" or strolling through the art musem, it's their loss. You can get some wonderful poetry from gazing into paintings. I don't feel compelled to cling to a beau of giggle with friends. I can allow my soul time to be free, always knowing that home is a pay-phone call away. It's a beautiful escape.

"Do you think you're better off alone?"
I don't think so, I know so.