My lover knows I consider myself single and all that entails and supports my decision, but finds it hard. He is coping by being a loving friend, but I miss having a lover.

I think being single and open to idea of other men in my life important for self-esteem and psychological well-being for as long as it feels good and not demeaning or cheap in any way. I just miss having him as a lover, although he is a lovely friend and sometime coleague.

Decisions and difficult conversations ahead. He is currently clebrating his sixtieth birthday with his wife, daughter and grandchild. I do know I'm special - I just have to decide if that's enough...