Deagus:
Okay, so I tried writing this before in an edit, but it wouldn't send....so here I go again.
I am a Catholic. I don't think I can do mortification because its much too tempting to take it to the extremes and say I'm doing good. Trust me, I'll find an excuse to do harm to myself...I'm in recovery right now, its very easy for me to relapse. I've been staying away from dieting for the very same reasons.
I have not had sex with this man, and we don't plan to. I say he's one of the best things to happen to me in awhile, because he is- as far as dating is concerned anyway. The best thing to happen to me was going on a mission trip last week and finding God again. Building my relationship with God has actually grown since I started dating my bf. He's respectful of my body, family, faith, views, flaws, imperfections, and everything...He's the one who makes sure I believe I'm beautiful...everyday without fail. Besides that, he's a true friend, and a friend before a lover...always. I don't want to give up on this relationship unless i really truly have to...and if it comes to that, he will understand and step back so I can get my life in order. I try to be as independent as possible, and he respects and encourages that. He's more of a best friend who happens to be a really good kisser than anything else.
I understand exactly what you're saying and where you're coming from...I wish I knew it all before I lost my virginity to the previous fellow who used me. But that's why I am who I am right now, and I am getting through it. Because of it, I was able to connect with a girl I thought I had nothing common with...when really we were exactly the same. Good things come from the worst.