Anita- You said, “Returning his things was a symbolic way on your part to exercise some control over a relationship in which you had a sense of no control.” I think this is absolutely correct! I also like that you said, “On the other hand it would have been reasonable for you to exercise control over your participation in the relationship.” I wish I would have stuck to my standards and left months ago. I think that’s part of my learning experience. It’s so difficult, but hopefully the end result of letting go will be an emotionally strengthening and fulfilling experience.

Vesper- Thank you for the kind words. I like that you said, “It is to your credit that you have a loving heart.” I believe I can walk away from this relationship knowing that I exercised a lot of love, care, and patience with this person- even during times when I was hurting. I gave it my all, he just wasn’t capable of receiving it or (possibly) appreciating it.

DaisyBuchanan- Thank you for this, “You can trust your intuition here. If they are not ready to honor that connection, they should definitely not be in your life. You do not need to feel badly about yourself even for a second for trusting in something you felt at any point.” Very well put. I felt a connection and I trusted it. This person wasn’t capable of giving or receiving the love that was there. I will try my best to take your advice that I have the strength to take care of myself.