want to be with girl in future, just not present

[rbdm]

Ok, heres my situation. I've been dating a girl on and off (mostly on) since I was 15, and I'm 21 years old now. I love this girl and am pretty sure I want to spend the rest of my life with her. The only problem is that I feel like I've never really had an opportunity to "play the field." I miss the feeling of the pursuit, and the way a new relationship feels. I want to experience that again before I settle down and can't go back in time. The only way to do that, that I can see, is to take a break with my current girlfriend. Of course, this also gives her the opportunity to see other guys, which I'm fine with. It just scares me to think that she (or even I) might find someone else and we won't end up together in the long run. I know I can't have my cake and eat it too, so what should I do? Is it fair to ask my girlfriend for a break, and still have some long term expectations? Or am I being selfish? We really have a lot invested in this relationship - intertwined friendships, close families...and above all I really love her.

[Agape]

Seems kinda paradoxical . . .you want to maintain your current long term relationship but you want to experience some short term things in the meantime?

Well why do you say you've been dating "on and off (mostly on)" . . . perhaps you could slow this down till you are comfortable again . . . if you have a good girl don't lose her.

[Only-virgins]

Okay, but in my opinion playing the field is a hassle and sucks. It is amazing how some people who having something so great are so eager to throw it away while others who would like something like that won't find anything.

[Spoonandfork]

I love this girl and am pretty sure I want to spend the rest of my life with her. The only problem is that I feel like I've never really had an opportunity to "play the field."

either you want to settle down with your girl or not. If you are content with your relationship, then you shouldn't desire any other girl