Ever have an ex who broke up with later thank you for dating them?

I've had this strange scenario occur. She ended things, and it was amicable. Couldn't handle the long distance relationship anymore, so I understood. But years later I recieved a big message from her. We'd stayed friends but didn't speak much. The big message was a long letter thanking me for showing her what it was like to actually be loved and have a relationship beyond just the physical. She said it made her realize she was worthy of that kind of love and that she desired it. She thanked me for what I gave her and told me about how it empowered her to love in return. She said that her husband and her were speaking of life lessons that they were grateful for and that she realized I had opened the doors for her to pursue family and happiness.

I don't think I've ever had a more touching letter. At the same time a twinge of heartbreak that I was a catalyst but not the benefactor. But I have no regrets. If anythingit just strengthens my resolve to love openly and love well.

SW-User

I was the person that said thank you. He taught me a lot, and he was a big part of my life. If I had never met him, I'd probably be much better off. But he has influenced the way I think and behave so much. I wouldn't go back. I told him something along the lines of "Thank you for spending the evening of my childhood with me. Please remember me only as that carefree child."

ViciDraco · 36-40, M

@SW-User you would have been better off without? So a lesson learned the hard way, but an important one nonetheless?

SW-User

@ViciDraco I would have probably done more with my life, really. If I'm honest, he held me back. He knows it, too. He apologised to me and told me he would pray for my forgiveness, but I told him that I was never mad at him. I also told him that instead of praying for my forgiveness, he should pray for me to get into med school, haha. I don't have regrets, though. I learned a lot from him.