Welcome Committed2Change!
I think most of us learned the hard way - I know I did!:ghug3 I love what you said, though...... maybe he really was your "knight in shining armor" in a way.
Glad you're here - I think it's great that you're focusing on yourself right now. When I stopped drinking I had to learn how to deal with feelings and like myself again. Life is so much better sober.