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The Roz Warren Challenge
Time for me to put up
A few weeks ago, writer/editor extraordinaire Roz Warren penned an article titled “I’m Glad I Don’t Have a Husband” which, among other things, extolled the virtues of an “unpartnered life.” The vast majority of responses were “Team Roz”-people who were more than happy not to have to share their day-to-day existence with a romantic partner. I certainly would never question what makes anyone else happy, but I thought another point of view would be worth looking at. So, my response was as follows:
Roz
I know I’m not the target audience for this or your other well-written article on this topic. You certainly have tons of support for your point of view. And it’s great to know what makes you happy. What I wonder about, and what seems to be missing from the comments is the value of friendship. As we age those social connections become more important and in fact, have an effect on our quality of life. Studies from the CDC found:
• Social isolation significantly increases a person’s risk of premature death from all causes, a risk that may rival those of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity.
• Social isolation was associated with about a 50% increased risk of dementia.
• Poor social relationships (characterized by social isolation or loneliness) was…
