Thank you for the enlightening article. In Japan, where I have spent many years, there are also derogatory words for women over 25 who have not married. The terms are astoundingly mysoginistic and the phrases to insulting to repeat.

It is a tragedy that those whose marriages have tumbled to dissolution are treated with virtual contempt in some countries where as in others it is not dissimilar to having the car washed (ie Denmark where I have also lived. The term 'cavalier' springs to mind regardless of gender). In Japan it is labeled, ichibatsu - strike one. It is tainted with disdain.

I know not the history of RBG's marriage, but surely it would be worthy material for a book. A biopic of RBG herself should be indoctrinated into school curriculums. (There you go Carol, on your pen!)

I tried searching for an antonum for 'leftover', that was a challenge. I think a better term might be... 'newlywhole.'

It is a sadness that in too many of the world's education systems the value of how to structure, maintain, and enjoy an equitable relationship of mutual respect is not taught. It is more important to master studies relating to job procurement than acquiring the tools and emotional intelligence to foster love. The duty then must fall to parenting and therein lies the Achilles heel.

I count myself as one of the fortunate. Even in the middle of writing this I stopped, dashed up to the roof to see a magnificent sunrise, (it was chilly), and who better to do it with than the 'sun' who has seen 40 years of skies with me.

May you find someone to stand beside you in your many years ahead, and gaze up in wonder at the skies from where love, like drifting clouds, plays and swirls in our hearts.