[matwood]

> I don't think I agree that relationships are shallow.

I agree. The older I get, the more important they become. And I say this as a person who is generally comfortable alone.

Of course not every connection is deep, but that doesn't make them any less meaningful.

You're spot on about teaching/influencing others, and you don't have to be an actual teacher. Just giving advice and/or helping others when asked (and sometimes when not) is a bigger deal than I think many realize.