AlethiaSi,
it makes me sick as well to hear how often this happens to people. i count myself fortunate that it has not happened to me, and i pray it never does. i, too, am one of those super-trusting people who lets her guard down a bit too soon. luckily nobody has taken advantage of that. its a shame, friendly, outgoing, open people are vulnerable to that type of attack. its not in my personality to come off as abrasive or bold, it would be completely uncomfortable for me. i think now, though, for the sake of my family and myself, that i reexamine that aspect of who i am and try to work a more cautious angle into my life.
dont let this kill that sweet, bubbly part of you. that is what makes you YOU. you have already been robbed of something else important and special, hold on to this as tight as you can!