I really thank you guys for your suggestions and help.

When I was answering your replies, things became much clearer in my mind. I have also had time to think about this recent setback and I feel better than I did a few days ago.

The rejection wasn't personal. I might have taken it this way because W was someone whom I was extremely attracted to for many reasons. We just aren't at the same place, him and I.

I think my feelings of loss are more intense when I am met with a disappointment like this one...but posting here helped.

I have read a great book called ''It's not you'' by Sarah Eckels. That helped me a lot to put things into perspective. I think there are tons of women out there who find it difficult to find a loving partner. Probably lots of men too, but I am not a man so I can't comment for the opposite sex.

This year, as I have said, I have met many men, just by being out and about and doing things. I have lost a lot of weight and am just more satisfied with my life. The thing that is also different from previous years is that I know what kind of man I would like to share my life with. Before that, I didn't. Similar values and interests, as well as physical attraction, are super important to me. I value kindness towards others, a person who is responsible, etc. I also value social justice, so I can't be with someone who doesn't care about others, or animals, or the environment. I just can't. I love to travel, I love the outdoors, I love animals. He loves all those things too. This guy had all those things that I was looking for. Unfortunately we don't want the same things right now. So he isn't the right man for me.

But, maybe, for myself, a better way of looking at the situation is to tell myself I am getting closer to meeting the man I want to meet.

And if not, yeah, I will try to find a way to not let this bother me so much. Try to find ways with my therapist to deal with the setbacks, that they aren't the end of the world...

I get what I want in life. I seriously do. Career wise, anyway. I am also surrounded by wonderful friends that I care for and that care for me. I worked on getting the body that I wanted (healthy and strong!) and am just happier than I used to be. Maybe the same success can come my way with a relationship?