Ok, thanks for the advice on giving her space and time.
Why then is she contradicting that? She says she needs to feel loved with passion and confidence (where right now she feels none of that from me), and as time goes on she is feeling more lonely. Like I say, most previous attempts by me at giving her space have been met with the accusation that I am just avoiding her because I want her to make the first step at showing affection. In addition, she says she has a limited time frame--that she can't wait for me for much longer. When I hear that is when I start to feel somewhat panicked. I'm doing 100% better at keeping that feeling hidden from her in our interactions, but it still follows me at periods throughout the day.
Good job hiding the panicky feelings. I know how tough it can be, but it will begin to get easier as you move forward.
Regarding connecting with her/ showing intimacy: It's like a dance, and you need to follow her lead. If you approach her and she is unreceptive, you back off, give her space. If she engages, you do the same.
Do you guys talk much? As long as you avoid the big relationship topics, this is a great way to connect. Again, follow her lead.
M: A really long time. Crisis: 5 years. She's still worth it.
Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, but only by lack of meaning and purpose. -Viktor Frankl
