It is very difficult being alone
@Bloomy
Let me rephrase that, feeling lonely is very difficult, especially when that feeling of loneliness has been with you your whole life.
It can create a feeling of "what is wrong with me?"
That feeling can become a deep belief about yourself that can turn into a self truth.
If you believe something so deeply it becomes a personal truth, you will project that to others.
I am not criticizing but I think you and anonymous have something in common. A deep need to feel accepted.
Yes, this board reflects real life, we are real people dealing with our own real life issues. Not everyone is comfortable sharing what brought them here. Maybe some have a predetermined script so if they share something, certain responses are expected. If they don't get the response they want, they feel unliked or misunderstood and so they withdraw.
I have lived my life not fitting in, being avoided and excluded.
@Bloomy I give you kudos for trying, you are much braver than I am.
Not only don't I try to coordinate a get together, even when I am invited, I say an enthusiastic yes! Then at the last minute back out. Then my feelings are hurt when I'm no longer invited. Go figure!
All of this that's going on around you has nothing to do with anyone but yourself. You can't expect people to like you if you don't like yourself. I know because I live it.
Hugs of understanding offered. Accepted or not are both okay.
Alice