You felt it wasnt right because of who you are. And let's face it, you are still married.
That's why I say, finish your stuff. And yea, you arent near ready to start all of that. But you handled it in your wonderful Cali way. I am not at all surprised.
I have seen many, many people start to date before they were ready or done and it has always led to people being hurt on both sides.
So, get back on your path. You have some tough stuff coming up.