Have you ever loved someone so much that you could not date them because of the fear of losing them?

No, I can't say I have.
People do make sacrifices when inlove but this one just dont seem right. How can the friendship be compromised if he has fallen inlove with you? His feelings are much more intense than that of mere friendship. Why even think about what could go wrong before anything even began? Love is complicated but when two people go against all odds and face all obstacles together, nothing can shake their bond.

Yep. Same story. But instead of him it was I not wanting to start anything in fear of losing him altogether. In the end he thought I'm just playing with him, and left. Just left. Trying to keep him cost me all my self respect. Looking back it was like I had wrapped my arms around his leg and was being dragged roughly as he tried to walk away. Now I can't even look him in the eye. Wish we at least had something before a breakup.

because the friendship is worth it, and it was with a co-worker who i grew up with. We told each other everything, but i accepted it by focusing on the friendship

Nope, haven't been through that. However, I have been through situations where I wonder if I am good enough for the person I want to be with. :o