When you've experienced a painful relationship break-up, it's easy to begin wondering whether you ever can have a good relationship again. You long to be loved, understood, listened to, and believed in. Yet sometimes relationships don't seem to work out the way we anticipated. The result? A lot of hurt and disappointment. The pain of breaking up from a sexual relationship can be even worse because of expectations that weren't met.  There is hope, though. Time really does heal but allow yourself to heal gently. Talk to people you trust, and work through your pain with a good counselor, if that's what it takes.

Before you enter another relationship you may want to consider some helpful hints. Think about how long it's taken to get to know your closest friend. Developing real intimacy takes time...but it's worth it! Remember, intimacy isn't being physical, it's being known, loved, and accepted for who you really are, and giving that same kind of love to somebody else. The development of intimacy will stop growing and can even go backwards once you start getting physical with your steady. Also, intimacy is the glue that will hold a relationship together, unlike the physical side, which tends to confuse the picture.

So....instead of jumping in to the physical side of the relationship, why not work on getting to know each other by talking, doing fun stuff together and finding out all about the other person. Learn what makes them feel loved, their fears, hopes, and dreams. Learn what trust is all about.

The bottom line is....you're a valuable person, well worth waiting for!