Number one. If you have a transactional relationship it's because you chose to make it one, not because all relationships are that way or that they are even the best option.

It's just how YOU want to see the world and operate in it. Your choice. Best of luck with that.

Doesn't change the fact that more transactional behavior in relationships tends to breed resentment and apathy. They tend to not last because things change. Feelings change. People Change. Transactional relationships are just not dynamic in the way that reciprocal ones are.

People who make the best partners know this, which is why they reject the term and the philosophy. They're in it for the long haul. They don't want and wouldn't be a starter husband/wife. They choose to emulate elephants, dolphins, beavers, otters, or crows. Not chipmunks, foxes, magpies, sperm whale, or Topi antelope.

I'm not lonely. Sure, I experience loneliness from time to time because everyone does. But then I do something about it. I actually can do something about it because I'm not tied to someone. Overall, I'm much happier and less lonely than I was when I was married or in most relationships. They tend to be isolating for most women.

I'm a happy and healthy middle aged single American mom who is not a functioning alcoholic or on antidepressants. I've never tried to kill myself or even thought about it. I don't feel burdened by Parenthood. I love being a mom. I love being me.

Dude. I beat the statistics and escaped the fate laid out for me by the society and culture I live in. I'm thrilled.

What is this "sad and lonely" bullshit you're peddling? Nobody's buying that.