Hi Jennifer and Andrea - I've been mulling over this one all weekend, and am not sure I'm closer to the answer. For as long as I can remember, he has not had long term friends, even before I was a feature in his life. However, to describe him as a hermit would not be exactly accurate either, because in small doses he does like company. The closest I can get to is that he does not like the effort it takes to sustain relationships. Let me give you a couple of examples.
We are off on a two week holiday at the end of the month and lately his mum has been feeling a little melancholic. He has not seen her since last January, though he speaks with her every weekend. I casually suggested it may be nice for her to have a break with us, to which he just said that he had thought of it, but figured it would be too much of a hassle to put up with her. Hmmm.
Just this morning, it occured to me that the 2 ancient computers could be donated to the local orphanage - an acquaintance of ours has been putting the word out that they are looking for such equipment. When chatting, NG said it was a good idea, but perhaps we can do it after we are back because it would be too stressful to negotiate before we go away - now to me, it is just one phone call, and we have over 2 weeks before going away. How can this possibly be deemed as stressful?
He is most happy sitting on his couch watching the telly. Seems to be able to do so for hours at the weekend. He is very organised at work, able to say no to additional things that may cause him to be stretched.
Slowly
