I just want you to be happy

Readers, I've noticed a trend among a group of individuals I've been writing about recently. Have you ever had someone making a totally unsolicited remark about your personal life that shows sie doesn't know anything about your personal life? I'm sure I'm not the only one who's had this happen. Whether it's someone asking me for the umpteenth time why I don't have a significant other or are not longing to get married or don't really wish to have kids, I've found it really shows just how ignorant they are about me! It never ceases to amaze me when they ask me about things they know just aren't a priority or an interest for me. I mean, I make it a point to remember what they value, and it would be amazing if they could return the favor. (Why not ask me about my job? Or my thesis topic? Or the super-empowering American Historical Association conference I went to? I would be happy to discuss any of those!)

But then when I've politely rebuffed them and said that's not my focus at this time, the big fat kicker is unleashed:

"Well, I hope you change your mind someday. I just want you to be happy!"

That's why you want me to change a lifestyle that's already serving me well?

What makes them think I can't be or am not happy as I am? Is singlehood some sort of blight that they feel they need to fix?

And for the record, I am happy. As I am.

I just wish they believed me.