Very good observations, proving once again, I can learn by listening to other view points. You nailed it with 'it's a "buyers" market for socializing', and you

Very good observations, proving once again, I can learn by listening to other view points. You nailed it with 'it's a "buyers" market for socializing', and you keep flocking to less threatening or less comfortable social groups. I think this is mostly good, but as we have both put forth, can lead to not dealing with reality at times. Again, to be able to get away from the extremes is beneficial, but to never confront others or our own personal fears might not allow us to grow more. We grow through obstacles, and that includes awkward, and at times scary, social ones too, not just the technical or intellectual ones. I am 52; you are very astute for your age!