Wow--your responses to your ex-wife really nailed it!
As for female companionship, that's an interesting can of worms.
I've thought about the pros and cons of dating quickly.
First, being ethical requires the other partner knowing you're recently single. I assume the other party is an adult capable of and responsible for making their own decisions (e.g., "Should I date someone who's broken?"). I was more broken when I realized when I began dating after my break-up.
Second, studies support that dating quickly does help you get over ex's and improve your sanity. For example, "An empirical investigation into rebound relationships" (Brumbaugh/Fraley, 2015) says " Analyses indicated that people in new relationships were more confident in their desirability and had more resolution over their ex-partner. Among those in new relationships, the speed with which they began their relationship was associated with greater psychological and relational health."
Third, that study cuts both ways as dating quickly hurt your chances of reconciliation. Those chances may seem meager now, but firemann and I learned the hard way it can have an impact.
Fourth, you may lose this friend where enjoyment of each others' company is mutual if you date.
Friendship/companionship is great. I've been open to making new male and female friends since this started. I just met with a woman for the 2nd time yesterday for a walk in the woods.
