Keep reaching out for friendship

Q– I’m an older man, never married, no kids, have been on many dating sites – with no luck for years.

I’ve been scammed on dating sites by women who, for a month, are interested in chatting with me. Then, they ask for money. I’ve been to singles’ dances, with no luck.

So, is it wrong for me to seek an escort for company? I get so lonely, sometimes depressed. It’s nice to meet up with someone to talk, maybe even make them smile, just the touch of a hand or hug. And when it’s over, I’m sometimes told that I’m a nice guy.

I don’t have many friends to talk to or visit. They’re all couples doing their own thing. With an escort, the company is nice even if I have to pay. Don’t we all pay for company to be on a dating site or have a date?

I’ve tried to volunteer for various things, hoping to meet someone, but it’s really hard now especially as I’m shy, though one of the nicest guys who’d do anything for another. I show respect and get respect. But it’s hard being alone. Some of the escorts are really nice people. I’d appreciate your feedback on my seeing escorts.

Lonely for Smiles/Touch A- I and many readers, I’m sure, empathize with your deep feelings of loneliness and the disappointments you’ve had when trying to meet potential companions.

Those website scammers whom you encountered should alert online daters and you to watch for early questions the women ask, and what personal hardship stories they tell... all usually building to the big request for help. When dealing with strangers online, even nice guys like you have to be wary.

The other theme besides crushing loneliness in your search for human contact is, no luck. That’s where you have to think positively (I understand that it’s difficult) and believe in yourself.