Putting it back together, but SSM issues linger

[TeaEarlGreyHot]

As I reflect upon your reply and some of the characteristics you've written about, it has the sound of "hormones." I say this from the sound of the swings back and forth and/or the dichotomy of self-confidence.

Some of what you've describe sounds at least a litlle bi-polar and as she has been aware of the depressive aspects of herself and her interactions.

I'll give you some short answers to your questions at the end and I may revise and extend when I have a bit more time.

1) Unless she has actually told you that she is or is not physically attracted to you, there is no real way to know except to ask. There are different ways to ask that question. Be aware that the "needy" concern is probably more yours than hers (i.e., she might not here the question as being needy. Being needy is more characteristics of requiring constane reassurance (e.g., her response when you seem to withdraw from her POV).

2)IMO, there is never anything wrong about being the more expressive partner as long as it doesn't become a competition. But sometimes operning ourselves up to share the feelings comes back to bite us in unexpected ways or is perceived very differently than we mean for it to be received.

3) It will always work out, though there are no guarantees in what way it will work out or that it'll work out in the way we would like. My first marriage taught me that.

More later

The Captain