Read about this Japanese guy who rents himself out for $100 an hour to do anything the customer wants of him other than illegal and sexual favours. Most of the jobs required of him is that of a companion or listener. Some clients also need his company to avoid being seen alone in some socially awkward situations. For instance to satisfy her whims of wearing a sari to dine at a restaurant a Japanese female client wanted him to dine with her. Another client wanted his company to play on the see-saw in the park. I guess the person found it too embarrassing to request a friend to accompany him. It just goes to show that fear of social attitude often inhibits one's freedom to do what one really desires.
Also came across a podcast about an American black man who found that people often confide and share their personal stories with him at airports or train stations after he became blind. He thinks people are sharing their life secrets with him because he can't see who they are, hence they feel they would not be judged.
So people are comfortable being with someone who is
1) unable to see or unable to judge them
2) doesn't bother to judge them
3) paid not to judge them or
4) whose opinion is of little importance to them.
That is why many people do not confide their problems with family and friends but will seek the help of a paid therapist. The Japanese guy mentioned above probably fits all the last 3 qualifications.
In this respect my cat satisfies the first and second qualifications above too and I don't have to pay a hundred buck to talk to her.
A true confidante if you will.
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