What a great piece, Charles. From beginning to end. Thank you. I particularly liked so many parts of it but I chose the one above to highlight here.
I read elsewhere on Medium ( cannot remember where) that the process of writing AND the result of the effort is very similar to the process and result of falling in love.
Not every process works the same for others. The type of partner that one ultimately selects might be perfect for you but your neighbor will have other criteria.
Variety is the spice of life. My (grandmother) Nanny June always said.