Note: This one is a bit old, but I would like to share it.
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So, time and time again I was asked, "Why do you want to be in a relationship so bad?" When my roommate asked me, probably out of exasperation, I realize I have found my answer.

I feel alone and unloved. I grew up without the luxury of a hug and a kiss when I was growing up. Unlike a lot of people, I grew up busy. There was no time for affection. There were bills to be paid, brothers to watch over, a house to clean, and homework to do. What do I get out of it? Nothing.

Most of the people I met at least has some kind of affection growing up. I never saw my mom and dad kiss each other, hug each other, and support each other. I know that in Vietnamese culture, we don't say words to express how we feel. It's all about what we do for each other. My dad and mom worked their asses off for the kids, but they never did anything for each other. That's what I remember. They never went on dates, or really built a relationship. So I never knew what emotional love was.

I want to meet my mate early in life. Why? Because growing together is a wonderful experience. That's opportunity to grow affection as well. What's the point of meeting someone in my mid-30's? It's great to find someone at that time, but by then, everything is established, stable. No excitement. Dead. Boring. I want that exhilarating feeling when one experiences joy and great fortune.

Don't get me wrong, I think people who love singlehood is great. To me, what's the point of all the money and fame in the world, if you have nobody to share it? Why do I strive so hard to find the right person? Why try at all?

Because it makes me feel alive. It makes feel that I live for something more than just myself.

I have no fear of intimacy when it comes to the right person. And I know that I am a wonderful boyfriend. I will give myself that. Why do I say that? Because I respect myself first, so that I can love the person who's damn lucky to have me. I have a lot of love to give, and want a lot in return. That's why I date, why I care, why I call back, why I fight, and why I work hard. I'm worth your time, spend it with me.

So maybe that's my answer. I never known what true affection and love felt like. And once I got a taste of it, I wanted more because it's such a wonderful feeling. To be supported, respected, and loved.