Mel, I'm glad you were able to release your old bfriend/ex fiance. You write with clarity & especially for someone your age, you come across as a very sweet/caring/nurturing person, who needs to find a man that totally appreciates & reciprocates this.
Dating can be a very fun time because you are not yet commited, making friendships, both male & female. Sharing who you are in JESUS, at the same time growing in many ways.
If you can, soak up All of the goodness you are recieving from those you are around, this man, others that are your friends. Keep boundaries very clear & you will build upon your friendship base.
Mel, you have wonderful, caring, Godly parents & you too can be that becon for others & the compliments this man gave you, believe it, as I'm sure you do.. Bible says, "be still & know that I am God."
I'm So happy to hear that you are finally around some friends/ dating those that see your goodness. Love is in giving... God Is Love.
It's not easy to let go of a love.. (your ex bfriend) BUT when they are not into it & have no desire to be with you, letting go is then opening that door back up for ourselves. Rejecting & being rejected is a part of dating.. When one keeps personal boundaries in place, The Lord #1, it is like a ladder to Heaven.. GOD BLESS YOU & BIG HUGS!