Do you ever feel like your mind is stranded somewhere? Psychologically marooned on some deserted island with no companionship, no partner in crime to explore and feel with, whether that exploration be sexual, emotional, platonic friendship, or some unique combo of the three?

That's essentially how I feel, almost all the time. Surrounded by people but feeling totally alone. Increasingly turning inward because there's no connection available to turn outward to.

It wasn't supposed to be this way. Or at least, I naively thought that when I was a kid. Being partnered up was supposed to be like having a built in best friend, somebody you could explore anything and everything with, never fearing judgment or embarrassment, or the most insidious reaction of all...benign indifference.

And yet here I am, trudging through my 40s, experiencing just that. I want to find a friend I can dive down rabbit holes with, exploring whatever comes to mind. I want that unique sense of companionship that can only be found when you know you've got somebody you can share anything with, without reservations.

I was hoping real life would be like that. Sadly, it's not, so I'm turning to the only other place I can find, hoping someone out there might want to commiserate.

Other tidbits about me: educated, professional, fit, regular gym goer, avid reader, purveyor of useless trivia.

Here I am, popping my head out and shouting into the void, hoping to hear something beyond an echo.