I think I found the right spot. Partly due to my depression, and my impatience with people, more and more friends are burdensome and I feel I would prefer a good book I know I need to be with people so push myself as best I can. One person, who is v. lonely and trying v. hard, calls me daily early. I told her I go out early due to the heat. She says she likes my ans. machine and wants to give me her sked. The phone ringing drives me nuts. I am v. sensitive to noise. I do call her later in the day and try to keep the conversation short. I go to a pool daily because I need to exercise in the water. Lately an old acquaintance who is a bore has been coming to sit with me. I deliberately put my head in my book. Hopeless. I am not interested in what she is talking about and haven't been able to steer the conversation to what would interest me. I know I am impatient with people and much more sensitive than I have ever been.
I am an extremely solitary person also but it's important to force ourself to socialize. It's always a burden for me to go with other people but at the same time i want to be loved and appreciated, so i force myself. Good luck Hugs
Thank u very much for the feedback. I don't think I can turn off the ringer. I also feel that I must push myself to communicate with friends. I find myself smiling into the phone and agreeing with them unless it is really a serious matter and they may be headed in the wrong direx. There are times when I barely listen so I say "interesting." At least I'm trying.