"Critics say the M9 is too bulky for small-handed shooters"
Read: women.
I'm not exactly a small guy (6'2" 230lbs), but getting a good grip on a 1911 is awkward and sometimes painful. I've never shot a Beretta, but I can imagine that it's not far from the same experience. Ejecting a mag can be a pain, too as you have to readjust grip to do so. I much prefer a pistol where I can adjust the backstrap for my comfort. Grip is highly important to being accurate in pistol shooting. My daily carry is a S&W M&P VTAC 9mm, a 24oz gun vs the M9's 33.6oz, with swapable backstraps. It's a dream to shoot (admittedly the stock trigger is shit). I'd be willing to bet it outperforms a Beretta with a multitude of shooters. The DA/SA is probably enough to lose that bet for the M9. Polymer striker fire guns have come a long long way.
I RTFA and I just don't see why you draw those conclusions. The article doesn't even mention women or Rangers. This has little to do with women and a lot to do with modern pistols being better all-around platforms as a secondary weapon system. If you can have a weapon be semi-customizable in the field to accommodate different shooters, that's also lighter and easier to maintain and operate, I'm for it.
I agree. However, as a divorced man, I find there are aspects of male-female relations that I miss profoundly. I miss the intimacy of having a woman as my best friend. It isn't just about sex. Sex is easy to get, but it's hollow when it's just about servicing a biological need. It's like having a nice steak dinner. Sure, it was good, but it only lasted for that time it took to consume. Making love with a woman you love is beyond the steak dinner... Far, far beyond it.
That said, I hate dating. I'd rather get to know someone organically, and if we find we like each other's company, then date. Online dating to me has been an utterly shallow misadventure.
I totally expect to be alone for a while, and I'm okay with that. I have done exactly what you describe since my divorce, and find I enjoy my life thoroughly. But it would be nice to find someone I can share it with.
"It's what you learn after you know it all that counts." -- John Wooden