Never meet an online friend irl

Two things I've learned from meeting online friends in real life:

1. No matter how much you think you know them, how much you get along, and how long you've been talking, this does not mean you will get along in real life, and
2. It hurts just as bad as someone who's face you've known forever when they break your heart.

Moral of the story:  If you have trust issues to begin with, do not let your guard down for anyone. Make them earn your trust before you open up and let them in.

Yes, this commitment-phobe took a chance and it bit me in the ass. Never fear, dear readers, I will learn to trust again. When, I don't know.

Long-time online friend, if you're reading: You may have wounded me, but those scars will heal eventually.

I told you everything
Opened up and let you in
You made me feel alright
For once in my life
Now all that's left of me
Is what I pretend to be
So together, but so broken up inside

-Kelly Clarkson "Behind These Hazel Eyes"

But I will heal, I promise.