Hi Viewing Ownly,
Thanks for the reply.
I take responsibility for the foolishness of my actions. I realize it takes two to tango.
I felt sorry for the provider because he was going through some things. So, part of the giving was altruistic. However, I believe he led me on to a certain degree. After all, he gave me his word that he would meet me. It has been several months since then, and he has cut off all communication.
I'm conflicted about the situation. I don't think he did it with ill intent or any maliciousness. There's a vast difference between a good guy down on his luck and an outright scam artist.