"I got the Slow Burn"

Demotion to "Friends with Privileges?"/Strong> You're a modern woman Or man capable of being number 2 Or 3 in line,right? And that exactly what this type of partner impresses upon you when they move on to find the person perfect for them (hint:You're not it). Variations include "Come one, we're both mature adults", and "I really enjoy your company, so I see no reason to stop seeing one another because I'm not ready to settle down", and "I don't understand why you're upset". I've been completely honest with you from the beginning. "What these statements really mean is We're broken up, but now I don't have to be guilty about your feelings, plus I get the best of the relationship that I valued". Most likely cause: A selfish partner who has decided that you're not the "One", but doesn't mind stringing you along for the enjoyable benefits (for he Or she, not you) that come with a half-relationship because they never have to give them up. Plus, they never have a fully break your heart, just appease you with the occasional gift Or something sweet uttered to keep you in his Or her good graces. Take comfort in?/Strong> The fact that after a while of being toyed with by this individual that you'll realize that being a modern man Or woman does not mean sacrificing self-respect Or what one is looking for in a relationship. If you are seeking a monogamous, committed relationship, and after a reasonable amount of time dating one another your partner still expresses that he Or she would like to see Or is seeing multiple people, then its time to call it what it is: A breakup that ended long ago, Or even before it started. You may really like how you feel when you've with that person, but the truth is you only have a part-time "relationship", and you and your partner have different goals. In fact, test this: ask your part-time partner if you both have a "relationship". The answer will be "No', Or an excuse that sounds like a veiled version of "No" and includes the words, "Well, technically? So you may have to tough-love yourself; Or in other words, know (and truly believe) that it's over. Nothing you do Or say will "win" back this person as you would like them to be in your life. Walk Down Memory Lane?/Strong> You stopped dating months Or maybe even years ago, but every now and then the phone will ring, a great conversation will be experienced, and part of the magic you once shared will reunite. The phone is hung up and you find yourself wondering if it could still work out and maybe even fantasizing that it could. Then over the course of the next few days, you contact that person and get the cold shoulder. What gives? Most likely caused by: A lonely moment of solitude for your ex. who finds himself Or herself dialing up old memories on the phone one evening. Here a reality check: Nine times out of ten, he Or she is still not available to you. What you're experiencing is nostalgia and the qualities that attracted you to him Or her in the first place. Should you still persist and venture down that path, don't be surprised if the enjoyment of mostalgia is soon overtaken by more realistic. 'Remembrances of exactly why he Or she repels you, and why it never worked out the first time. Take comfort in?/ Strong> The happy nostalgic memories, and being able to periodically enjoy the very best qualities of that person over the phone without having to commit to getting your heart broken Or yourself frustrated by your shared incompatibilities all over again. But unless you've willing to experience a sequel to the original breakup, although this time happening much more quickly, it may be worth it to keep the past in the past and allow yourslef to enjoy your old relationship only as a walk down memory lane. There are exceptions, of course, but there are reasons why someone is an ex?