A man is about to go on a date for the first time in 20
years. Before now, he had been in a long-term relationship,
which has sadly come to an end. He just got too distracted
by work, by friends, by everything except what he needed
to focus on most. She became like a ghost around the
house, a silent presence haunting the space they lived in,
but otherwise preoccupied with her own ethereal
concerns.
He blames himself. Maybe he doesn't deserve to find love.
Maybe he isn't suited to be in a relationship. He stops just
short of stepping into the restaurant where his date is
waiting for him. Finally, he decides to call his ex to ask her
for advice. He always felt stronger with her in the picture,
though he took her for granted until now. He needs just a
little bit of that strength again.
Which statement is a plausible theme in this story?