About three months ago I decided to put myself back into the dating scene after a year hiatus. Within a week, I met a great long-distance guy. We talk just about every day, however, we’ve only had a handful of actual dates. He is charming, intelligent, passionate, old-fashioned, respectful – just an overall great guy. The problem is, he comes on WAY too strong. On our first date, he appeared to be mesmerized by me. He opened up about his PTSD from his time in the military and shared the injuries he sustained. On top of everything, his father passed away less than a year ago, and while he was in college, he was sexually assaulted while intoxicated. He even cried, not just a few tears, but complete waterworks – twice. I could tell that this was a man in pain.

We connected on a deep level because, like him, I too have endured loss, heartache, physical limitations, and trauma. I wanted so badly to have the feelings for this man that he apparently has for me. The way he describes his love for me sounds like a romantic movie. I have no doubt that he would love me unconditionally. This is the catch: I do not feel the same way about him. I do have feelings for him, but I honestly believe that he is “too much” for me. I pushed myself away because it’s a lot to go through with a man you’re just getting to know. Am I selfish for feeling this way? Is it a mistake to walk away from an incredible man because he is too much to handle? I have to do what’s best for me; I’m just not sure if my fear of getting pulled into this issues is preventing me from being in a relationship with someone who will treasure me and love me like no other.

– Treasured