Several interesting points here i'd like to reply to but I'm about to head out for a bit so here's one:
I think I used to be the optimistic dreamer in life, but I don't feel that is my thing now,
I think this is fine. TBH, being an optimistic dreamer can be pretty toxic to your own evolution, but more importantly, I can't stand those faux-optimistic people who have no concept or need for empathy, drawing lines at sympathy only.
Being negative and accepting the darkness in your world is extremely healthy. Sure, it's not great at parties, but if I could purchase a get-out-of-parties-free card with lifelong subscription, i'd happily dedicate 75% of my income to ownership of it!
Sympathy is useless.... But I think empathy can be too, as people think they are "in another's shoes" which is impossible. I reckon compassion matters though, as it is an active form - seeing someone in need, helping them, regardless whether you are able to connect with them emotionally.
You don't like parties? :D
The reason its a requirement to snort cocaine or get pissed is precisely because parties suck. Without getting drunk or high, what is a party? A bunch of people standing or sitting around trying to think of ways to come across as likeable to each other.
I mostly just don't like being expected and pressured to like and attend parties. If you are so blasphemous to simply not like this particular past time, you're weird or a loser. Well, call me Mr Weirdloser then =) Meanwhile, I'll be learning new board games with my friends =)
You go to better parties than me... Though drinking is common here.
I dunno, not that there are many parties at my age, but back in the day they were a great way to meet new people through extended friend circles. Also, since I also once upon a time danced salsa, the dance parties were awesome.
Depends on the group perhaps.
I never got into the sit around drinking and listen to Nirvana thing in my teens, but I didn't mind the odd rave.
Well I don't go to them haha. But yeah if you like dancing then that's another thing entirely I suppose, equating to actually doing something you enjoy, rather than standing around pretending you enjoy. I realise lately I'm not too keen on creating more versions of myself for the sake of others. But that's a topic for another day!