<human>: We dated on and off for about a year and a half. She never felt the same as I did, so we broke it off over a year ago. This is her first birthday away from me in 4 years, and I (foolishly) reached out, innocently enough...she invited me out to party with her, her friends and her new beau. Of course, I declined, as much as I'd like to see her...not under those circumstances. A concurrent crisis of confidence hasn't helped. Given all that, how do I both deal with her invitation out for her birthday and manage the temptation of that easy shelter going forward? I wanted to be friends after things went south, but my friends made sure that wasn't possible...I would like a relationship on that level if it's possible, but I doubt it.

Can you give me a shortened version of the text?
<bot>: I'm too attached to my ex-GF's birthday. Looking for coping mechanisms / ways to maintain a friendly relationship.