That's too bad. I kinda liked him.

Ian - if for whatever reason you're still reading these posts, can I just say this? How you felt about the online hugs is normal. As you read, there are several of us who think the touchy-feely posts in this forum are just... not our style. But a good social skill to know is that you do not HAVE to express disgust every time you feel it. Sometimes you can keep it to yourself, especially if you feel disgust at someone else's well-intended actions. Otherwise, you'll find yourself alienated more often than you'd probably like.

I'm not saying you have to like everything that other people do, but just try not to hurt people's feelings. Nobody likes to be criticized, especially those who are trying to be your friend.

Lastly, try to assume that people have good intentions. I don't mean that you should be naive and ask a stranger to hold your wallet for you. But in cases where the other people don't have any reason or benefit to lie or be fake, then don't assume they are - give them the benefit of the doubt.

Because that's what we keep doing for you - we're giving you the benefit of the doubt that you have been hurt and that you have a difficult time trusting others, and that sometimes you lash out when you feel attacked, but that really, inside, you're a good guy that deserves a 2nd, or 3rd chance.

Ian is going to be a-ok!