I certainly don't mean to make any of these threads all about me but I do feel that I should answer when someone takes the time to address me personally (especially a friend.)
I surely do know that written communication is an art so far gone that it usually needs a respirator even from the first PM. I'm also not trying to make it sound like I have incredibly high demands.
I don't know, all I can says is that I know what's worked for me over a long time, and to be honest, I don't have a single regret over anyone who criticized my point of view.
I remember one guy who, when I was hesitant about giving him my number (we'd only PM'ed a day or so) wrote, "Well, unlike you, I'm actually a grown-up and can handle relationships instead of being paranoid." Eh... Ok. I understood where he was coming from, but I certainly didn't feel like I was losing out when our communication ended.
Reece, I'm sure you understand this: Do you ever feel like Scott Summers (Cyclops) and you wish you could find the right situation to just take the glasses off, open your eyes wide, pull out all the stops and be able to blast all your positive energy into something without holding back?
I feel that way about finding the right relationship. But I also believe it will take God's help, time, and a very special situation.
I can sit for hours and talk with someone about THEIR interests, dreams, ideas... But one of the reasons why I've never felt comfortable enough to get into another relationship is because I haven't really found anyone who can initiates an hour or two of asking me what I'm really into and why.
It's certainly not their fault--we're just built differently is all. The things I'm interested in are usually seen as pretty bizarre to other people (i.e., talking to guys who've shot people.)
I keep hoping that one day... God will send me the person I can take the glasses off with and fully open my eyes.