Today what I feared came true. I hadn’t heard from Sam in over a week. I was hoping to hear from him. I sent him the following email on Wednesday:

Sam
It was nice to wake up to rain. I love it when the day doesn't
start off so hot. I was wondering...is everything ok? I haven't
heard from you in a week. I thought about calling you, but I didn't want
to be a bother. Steve, please let me know how you are
you.

Marion

It took about a day for him to respond. Here is his email

I'm ok...just absolutely swamped right now with class at night, work and Boy
Scout Clay bird shoot during day...really tiredsorry i have not called or
written have to go to Amarillo next Wed SJS

It seems Sam has planned every single minute of his day or either couldn’t say no…LOL I understand the urge to stay busy especially when you are single or the kids are grown and you have lots of time on your hands. You keep yourself busy at work or with volunteer activities or family or friends. Always having someone event to plan or person to help makes us feel wanted and validated. They are “safe” relationships. They serve a purpose in providing a comfort zone. Sam’s life is full of “safe” relationships. On the other hand dating or maintaining a relationship with a man/woman isn’t a safe one—it can take you outside of your comfort zone. That is why I LIKE them…LOL Sam isn’t ready for one at 58 and probably explains why he has never married. I do feel he has all the other great qualities I want in a man. It only takes one big issue to derail things.

I emailed him and let him know that I understood. There is nothing I can do about his managing of time, so I wrote a nice email telling him not to worry about calling me. For this man I did "shed a tear"....I liked Sam.