Stranger for Rent

I saw this post on Facebook.

 

I read some of the comments, and most were laughing or making jokes sarcastic reactions about it, even saying it might be somebody's dream job. 

Though these are light humor, if we are to analyze the situation, it is depressing. I can personally relate to this on the side of the client. Ever since I could remember, I felt I should always look and act a certain way. Never show weakness and always look confident, fake it till you make it, what most people say.

This helped me when I was a student and when I was younger, but as I was starting to enter adult life, it has become an internal struggle. I would always filter what I say and second guess myself in everything I do. I eventually came to a point when I simply kept everything bottled in because I was afraid of what other people would think of me, especially my relatives.

I understand the client in the video,  talking to a total stranger about events in your life that you cannot share with people who are literally with you every day. The stranger has no previous information about you. It is unlikely to see each other again in a social gathering.

Sometimes, we merely need someone to accompany and listen to us, an individual who would not complicate a "yes or no" question. To have social interaction without attachment nor commitment, merely a temporary presence to interact with.

If I was in Japan, I would most likely ask for his services. Of course, with safeguards in place, and good intentions in mind, this service might be a relief for someone like me.