I'm facing some of the same issues re dating as well. And I've told my h and got pretty much the same response as you. I think his response was partly about caring for me and wanting me to be happy, but also relief for himself. Less guilt, less discomfort for the freedom that he is taking for himself. In another small way he probably would like me to put that part of my life "on ice" until he has truly and completely decided that his ow is "the one". Dating can be about dropping the rope entirely and completely. And it doesn't have to bar a recon. On the other hand, we may just meet someone who we realize is more suited to the relationship we want and need at this stage of our lives than our h's. Perhaps it won't have the shine of young love, but a soft patina that will reflect true friendship, deep commitment and compassion for each other as separate individuals, not projections of ourselves. Good luck.
