Men should not be "Rocks."

The other day I was chatting with a friend and we were discussing men, and living with them, etc etc. This gal mentioned something about her growing used to her man, and without her "rock" there, she could not sleep.

It makes me wonder what this "rock" concept is that women seem to be so accustomed to. Are women losing their independence? I suppose when someone sleeps next to you, and suddenly is not there, then yes, the natural rhythm of sleep is disrupted. I have experienced that. But never have I been afraid to sleep alone. I have been sleeping alone longer than I have been sleeping with a man.

I grew up around a lot of money. Always had a huge house. I recall in high school, when I lived in the hugest of the houses, my dad would be out of town on business, my brother would be off doing his thing, and at the time I did not have any cats. I slept alone. I literally slept alone in 3300sqft of vacant property many nights. Vacant because nobody is living there. Furnished, yes, but so quiet. Very quiet. Particularly because the home backed to forest.

I didn't have trouble sleeping though. I was not scared. I never grew up to the rhythm of other's breathing whilst I sleep. This gal grew up in a small, crowded home. Where everyone was always there. Very welcoming home. So I can understand why sleeping alone may be difficult for her, and even scary.

But me? I don't mind it. It's not like I prefer it, but it just doesn't bother me. I am not afraid to sleep with nobody there. Even in the echoed environment of my hardwood floored home. It can seem empty. But it doesn't contribute to sleeping problems.

I don't need a "rock." I wouldn't even call him that.

But I have heard that term thrown around a lot by several of my female friends. It makes me wonder...where is the independence in this world?

Where would they be without their husbands, boyfriend, male roommates...?