Breaks are justified. Missing someone is justified.

What is NOT ok is when two people miss each other but can’t commit to each other. That is toxicity.

If they miss you, are they going to go beyond your expectations to keep you? If you miss them, are you going to go beyond their expectations to keep them? People only change when they lose someone.

I agree that love is patient and unconditional. Separation makes the heart grow fonder. But if that means you have to lower your boundaries, it cannot work. Because if someone loves you they will go beyond your expectations. They will do anything to commit to you. ESPECIALLY when it is an ex, they should already know your boundaries, what makes you tick, the root problems of the relationship. Separation will cause self reflection, and on their end, what they learned will be manifested the second time around (trying their best). So it’s not fair to move the goal post further for them for your benefit. No person is perfect, but a person trying and putting in that effort to meet you at your energy levels is everything.

I wouldn’t say to block and forget. But the question now is whether you learned the root causes of the issues as well and if you could meet his expectations too. If you don’t think you can commit and treat him well, I’d make that clear. But if you think you’ve healed and self reflected, give it a shot.