At the same time, you’re also aware that upon attempting to reenter normal life from mom-land or middle-aged-land, or both, you’ll be seen as a weirdo, or cranky, or stubborn, or all of the above. Doesn’t it make sense you’d think about just not going back?

Unless, of course, your last partner did a number on you, and afterward you didn’t feel quite like yourself anymore. Weren’t sure, anymore, who you were. Unless, of course, you remember. Remember every not-great experience you’ve ever had with a partner. How they made you feel wary and angry and fearful and then, how they also told you to stop acti