I thought I'd write about some of my friends and what their situations are. I hope to illustrate as much for myself as for anyone who may read this (if anyone does) the diversity of challenges out there.
Friend 1: 40-ish female, smart (multiple academic degrees), good social skills; but heavyset and unattractive. Has been unable to find a life-long romantic partner. She's down on herself about her weight and is trying to reduce it.
Friend 2: Mid-30's male, nice guy, smart... has a girlfriend living in another country; but depressed about lack of professional advancement and social connections where he is.
Friend 3: Early-30's female, attractive, smart; moved to another city because she couldn't find a job, but now not happy in the job in that other city. Thinking of moving back to the first city. No life-long romantic partner (yet).
Friend 4: Early-30's male, good-looking, intelligent; suffers from a sexual addiction of sorts and has been with more girls than he wishes to remember. Has not found the emotional closeness he hungers for. Taking time off from dating now.
Friend 5: Probably-early-30's female, cute; has gained weight over time, clearly— in spite of her humor— is down, probably depressed. Hasn't found the right romantic partner.
Friend 6: Maybe-late-20's male, kind of quirky, but a deep person; moved to another country, because it felt right. Struggling to find his place there. Feeling bored with the people around him. Hungering for deeper connection.
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And that's just a few that come to mind. There are more— some happier, some sadder.