I was emailing a long-distance friend who got divorced a few years ago. She was worried about me because I sacrificed a lot for STBX's career. This is something that was commonly remarked on by my friends.
I told her that I feel so happy and free now that this is what I imagine a really great marriage feels like. I may be alone but I am entirely myself. And I get such affirming feedback from so many people that it just makes me want to be even more myself. In a really great marriage, I will also be entirely myself -- and have the privilege of sharing that with someone who is entirely, and intimately, himself.
I'm maybe romanticizing a future relationship, but I never want to lose myself like that again.
Quit worrying about your regrets and go fall in love with yourself. There's a lot there to love -- look at how many people stop in to check on you. your STBX is a fool. Let him sort himself out.
Have you heard from your new FB friend?
Me42, H40 D12, S8, S7 A revealed: 7/13 Sep 4/14; Agreed to D 1/15