Carolyn Hax: After a breakup, regrets that his parents were able to sway him

[conuly]

Dear Carolyn: My girlfriend and I broke up six months ago. My parents were always nice to her face, but behind her back they'd constantly tell me she was trashy, overweight, I could do so much better. That got in my head because I love and respect them a lot. They've always done so much for me.

I started picking at my girlfriend over little things my parents had pointed out about her. We had a lot of fights and she finally moved out.

My parents were really happy and fixed me up with a friend's daughter right away. Every few weeks I'd text my ex just to chat, testing the waters about getting back together. She never seemed interested but didn't shut the door, either.

She's with another guy now and in love with him.

I blew it. I really loved her and I'll never get her back. I want to accept that I screwed up and move on, but I can't forgive myself for being so weak and stupid. I've lost interest in socializing. Other women seem dull and lifeless compared with my ex. I'm also angry at my parents, but mainly at myself. How do you forgive yourself for being a major idiot?

— Can't Forgive Myself

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