Hello there my friend!

I can't say I'm going to give you advice because I trust you know the situation a lot better than I do, but in a roundabout way I was in exactly your situation. I dated a girl for a year (but it was a very strong bond and I never was in love before). And she broke up with me because of issues with herself (she couldn't mentally be in a relationship). I didn't take it well at first and kept waiting on her, and waiting, and waiting. And I kept forcing the issue. She told me to date other people. I did. But each time she texted or called I immediately ended it with whoever I was dating, only to find out she still didn't want a relationship.

I can tell you what NOT to do. Don't have expectations like I did. It would be great to expect that he'd get better and you'll have that bond again, but you don't know what life will bring you. Don't force the issue. I'm not saying you shouldn't be friends with him, just give space. And don't pressure him. If I were you, I would recommend just being there for him, maybe give him a phonecall once a week or something, and don't talk at all about relationships. It sounds like he is making progress. It sounds like he really really wants a relationship but he knows himself better than you do. So what is left to do? Just throw your expectations out the window. You have to trust in life. Work on yourself, do what you're already doing, talk to people, reach out to friends. I know my ex really did miss me and wanted a relationship so in time, the person will come back. Who knows if it will work, but remember, you threw those expectations out the window. Best of luck my friend. It will all work itself out. Coming from a person who cried his eyes out over the loss of his ex several several nights, I know first hand that time heals wounds.