I feel ya, and yet we need people. It's tough because it's in our nature to seek those deep meaningful relationships and a lot of people just aren't like that. They feel just as comfortable or moreso talking about **** like the weather or what happened at work or whatever. Sometimes, I believe, we just have to cater to that nonesense a little just to keep people around. Oftentimes, those are the people that will stick around.

I think one of my paranoias is not knowing what people are thinking, or that if they're quiet they are thinking poorly about me. But oftentimes it's the talkative ones that say something and then later, it's like they don't even mean it, or mean it anymore....ok, this is not really advice. I guess the advice is just to try to believe that most folks mean well. I know it's not hard because we've been hurt, but remember that we played a part in it too. Try to think well of people and they will respond to that.

that last part sounds hypocritical. I want to say that not all talkative ones should be avoided. No way! because that would be me! but just remember that it's sometimes what people don't say that can tell you more. Now I'm probably just confusing the situation more. Point it, it's hard, but do try to remember that folks are flawed, but generally, they are alright. And try not to think of rejection as the end of the world. (yeah, tell myself that. bleh! it's true i've met some great folks since rejection, but I'm really really missing someone right now. :/ So, you're not alone in being afraid, but we must press on!)