According to the dictionary definition, "asexual" means someone who does not feel sexual desire towards anyone. They do not have interest in romantic relationships or sex either. It is often confused with celibacy because of its similarities, but they are different terms. Celibacy refers to abstaining from any type of physical contact whereas being asexual implies that one does not feel any form of attraction for another person. This might be confusing for many people, as most individuals are not aware of this concept until they come across it somewhere. Many people find it unbelievable when they learn about this orientation because it goes against what most people believe sexuality should look like. However, it is becoming more commonly known nowadays due to various reasons. People who identify themselves as asexual face difficulties since they tend to be ridiculed and misunderstood by others in their lives. People don't understand them because they cannot comprehend how someone can live without such feelings. There has been much debate on whether it exists or not, but it does exist, and studies have proven it true.
Asexuals make up 1% of the world population, according to some estimates. In other words, there are millions of people out there who experience little to no sexual urges. Some may even go for years without having these feelings at all. They just live life normally while everyone else is engaging in sexual activities around them. Their partners may have to deal with rejection or frustration since they want intimacy that their partner lacks. It becomes a struggle if both parties want something different, and it is hard for them to compromise. However, asexuals do enjoy companionship, which is why they seek relationships with non-asexual people. They develop deep bonds without necessarily involving sex, which is an excellent way to maintain long-term relationships. Asexuality is common among the LGBTQ+ community, but anyone can feel this way regardless of their gender identity. Being asexual doesn't mean you lack romantic feelings; instead, it means you don't need physical contact to fulfill your emotional needs. You can love someone deeply without wanting to get intimate with them, and this is perfectly okay.
Many theories attempt to explain why this orientation exists. One theory suggests it is caused by genetic mutation, while another claims it stems from childhood experiences. Some believe it is environmental due to social conditioning, while others think it could be hormonal. Regardless of its cause, being asexual is not something you choose but how you were born. There is nothing wrong with being asexual as long as you accept yourself and those around you do too. People who identify themselves as asexual are often misunderstood, discriminated against, shamed, bullied, rejected, and even depressed because society sees no value in them. This leaves many feeling alone, confused, isolated, and afraid to come out about their sexuality. The good news is that there are support groups nowadays where individuals meet and talk freely about this topic without fear of judgment. It has helped many people realize they are not alone and given hope to those struggling with the same situation.
Being asexual doesn't mean you cannot enjoy life or have fun activities. In fact, you will be happy in your relationship since you won't struggle with temptations like other couples. However, being open about your asexuality before entering into any romantic relationship ensures your partner knows what they are getting into. If you want to share feelings only with words instead of physical touches, then don't hesitate to express yourself explicitly so both parties can agree on boundaries. You may find an understanding person willing to fulfill all your emotional needs without sex. Asexuals need love just like anyone else, but intimacy is not necessary for them to feel complete. They simply prefer other ways to show affection and maintain relationships. As such, it would help if we stopped defining love based on physical attraction. Love should be felt regardless of its form.