We live in a culture of statuses. Employment status. Social status. Facebook status. Relationship status. We’re not only judged by what we do or how we act, but by who we’re attached to. It’s not who you are; it’s who you’re with.
Hollywood was onto something with the “Brangelina” and “Bennifer” crazes. In our society, we walk through life in orderly pairs. We are our partner, and our partner is us – complete inseparable.
Perhaps my growing experience in the corporate world is making this reality more apparent than ever before. I’m accustomed to sending in a wedding RSVP for one, but navigating a stiff company function or holiday party solo is an entirely different playing field. It’s in those moments when it’s tempting to think, if only I had someone, anyone, to call mine.
I recently heard an adage I plan to carry with me in these difficult social situations:
“It takes an awfully good man to be better than no man.”
I may be alone, but I’m steps ahead of the person who is maintaining a fruitless relationship. My relationship status may be single, but at least it’s not “married with serious issues” or “in a committed relationship and extremely unhappy.” (Watch for Facebook to add these relationship options soon.) Merely attaining a significant other, fiancé or spouse, doesn’t mean he or she is Mr. or Mrs. Right, and it most definitely doesn’t guarantee that you’ll be happy.
So the next time I’m mingling at a company function and spot a raised eyebrow as I introduce myself unaccompanied, I may just spout this reply:
“I’m Jessica. Don’t look behind me for a stray companion because it’s just me. And when I say it’s just me, I mean, it’s me – confident, secure, blessed and unattached. I’m seeking but not needing the right man in my life because if you haven’t heard, it takes an awfully good man to be better than no man. Think about it.”
