I definitely identify with mermaids but the ugly, seaweed-for-hair, drag men to their watery deaths kind; not the pretty singing voice, fall in love with a prince, clamshell-bra-wearing kind
Those who give all for nothing are rare. Should you in this lifetime find yourself loved by such a person, hold them close, count your lucky stars, and let them know you fucking appreciate them.
You should be grateful for the things that never worked out. You have no idea what the universe was protecting you from. It is, however, guiding you to a destination in the midst of chaos. You need to trust that greater things are ahead. Let the past go gracefully.