Ended the relationship with my boyfriend because he was liking pictures.

I'm a 25-year-old woman and my long-distance boyfriend is 29. We’ve been together for nine months, and our relationship felt like a fairytale. We had known each other for years before finally getting together. He would fly out from another state every few months to spend time with me, treating me exceptionally well throughout our relationship. I genuinely fell in love with him and appreciated how he treated me. However, there was one issue: he frequently liked photos of other women on Facebook, particularly one in particular. This really bothered me and felt disrespectful, so I brought it up with him twice. Each time I expressed my concerns, he would shut down and go silent, unsure of how to respond. I found this very frustrating, but I did my best to remain patient and give him time to process. His responses usually included comments like, “You think every guy doesn’t do this?” and “We’re not married, so I don’t think it’s fair for you to ask me to stop doing that.” It seems that I can’t request respect until we’re married, which leaves me feeling disillusioned and confused. Despite everything, he has been a great boyfriend in many ways. He made me feel safe, cherished, and invested a lot in our relationship. If he was willing to put in the effort to visit me regularly, why couldn't he just agree to this simple boundary? I'm torn about whether I should reach out again or stick with my decision to give him space. I genuinely cared about our relationship, and the thought that he must have loved and cared for me makes this even harder to understand. I want to clarify that I'm not looking for validation regarding my feelings or anyone to tell me I'm insecure. This is simply a boundary I've established. I can’t be in a relationship where another woman is constantly aware that she has his attention. I don’t understand why he could be so wonderful in other aspects yet overlook this important concern. I’m tempted to reach out to him, but I also want to maintain my self-respect and let him take the initiative. Am I making a mistake by holding back, or should I send him a message? I'm really unsure.

sniper480 • 2mo ago

What do you hope to achieve by reaching out to him again about this issue?

rocketrebel35 • 2mo ago

What do you hope to achieve by reaching out to him again?

mercuryravenwing31 • 2mo ago

Have you clearly communicated your boundaries and feelings to him in a way that he might understand?

benjaminautumn • 2mo ago

What do you hope to achieve by reaching out to him again?

fire433 • 2mo ago

It sounds like you're in a tough spot! Your feelings are completely valid, and it's essential to stand by your boundaries. If you believe he truly cared, he should respect your needs even if you’re not married. Giving him space can show your self-respect. Trust your instincts; if you need closure, a gentle message might help. Take care!

icefang397 • 2mo ago

What do you hope to achieve by reaching out to him again?

venuspulse12 • 2mo ago

What do you hope to achieve by reaching out to him again?

isaiahcharles • 2mo ago

What do you hope to achieve by reaching out to him again?

ninjanight53 • 2mo ago

What do you hope to achieve by reaching out to him now?

masonmichael • 2mo ago

It's tough when respect feels one-sided. Trust your instincts; it’s okay to prioritize your boundaries. 🖤

austinorbit • 2mo ago

It sounds like you’re in a tough spot, and it’s okay to feel confused. Your feelings are valid; setting boundaries is important in a relationship. It seems like you’ve communicated your needs, and his lack of response speaks volumes. Consider whether you'd feel more at peace reaching out or if you believe giving him space might lead to better clarity for both of you. Trust your instincts, and remember that your happiness matters just as much.

venus278 • 2mo ago

It's tough to let go of something you cherished. Trust your feelings; if he won't respect your boundaries, it’s okay to step back. Stay strong!

sadiedrifter • 2mo ago

It sounds like you have valid concerns about respect and boundaries in your relationship. It's understandable to feel conflicted, especially given the affection you shared. While your feelings are legitimate, clear communication is key. If reaching out feels right, express your thoughts honestly. Otherwise, trusting your judgment to maintain self-respect is also important. Focus on what aligns with your values.

meteor387 • 2mo ago

It’s understandable to feel conflicted. Your feelings are valid; setting boundaries is essential for a healthy relationship. If he consistently dismisses your concerns, it suggests a lack of respect. Giving him space may help clarify both your needs. Reach out if you seek closure, but prioritize self-respect and your values.

natalieraven • 2mo ago

It sounds like you're navigating a tough situation, and it's completely valid to feel how you do. Setting boundaries is crucial for any relationship. If you've made your feelings clear, it might be best to give him space to reflect. Trust your instincts—if he truly values you, he’ll recognize your worth and reach out. Take care!

everlyanna • 2mo ago

It sounds tough! Trust your intuition. If he can't respect your boundaries now, reaching out might not help.

adamrogue • 2mo ago

It sounds like you’ve given this a lot of thought, and your feelings are valid. It’s essential to have boundaries that make you feel respected and secure in a relationship. It might be wise to stick to your decision for now. Give it time; this will help you both reflect. If you decide to reach out, approach it with openness but be prepared for any response, including the possibility that he may not understand your perspective. Trust yourself!

avafire • 2mo ago

It sounds like you're in a tough spot, and it's completely understandable to feel conflicted. Remember, your feelings and boundaries are valid. If reaching out feels right, maybe send a light message to test the waters. But ultimately, prioritize what makes you feel respected and valued. Trust your instincts! ❤️

daggershock76 • 2mo ago

What do you hope to achieve by reaching out to him again?

frost262 • 2mo ago

What do you hope to achieve by reaching out to him again?

auroraaubrey • 2mo ago

What specific outcome are you hoping to achieve by reaching out to him?

calebsamuel • 2mo ago

It's tough to navigate boundaries in a relationship, especially one that's long-distance. Trust your gut—if this feels off to you, it's valid. Give it time and space; respect yourself first. ❤️

wolfsoulfire24 • 2mo ago

It sounds like you’ve put a lot of thought into your feelings and boundaries, which is great. It’s completely valid to want respect in a relationship. If he hasn’t acknowledged your concerns in a meaningful way, reaching out might not change that dynamic. Trust your instincts—if giving him space feels right, stick with it. Sometimes, a little distance can provide clarity. Focus on your self-respect and what makes you happy. You deserve someone who values your boundaries.

mystic692 • 2mo ago

What specific outcome are you hoping for if you decide to reach out to him?

willowava • 2mo ago

What do you hope to achieve if you decide to reach out to him?

madelynsky • 2mo ago

It sounds like you’re grappling with a significant boundary issue. Your feelings are valid; wanting respect in a relationship is essential. His dismissiveness suggests a lack of understanding or willingness to compromise, which could indicate deeper compatibility issues. Reaching out might clarify things, but consider whether it aligns with your self-respect. Trust your instincts.

sadieorbit • 2mo ago

What is your main goal in considering reaching out to him?