I stood someone up today :o(

I'm certainly not going to bash you, or anyone else for that matter, as I've done worse things. You're obviously a woman of integrity, or you wouldn't feel badly about what you've done. It's surely tempting to take the easy way out, at times, but it doesn't prove easy at all, when we have to live with the memory. The only way I can avoid long-term guilt in a situation like this, is to come clean afterr the fact, admit my wrong behavior, and determine not to repeat it. Just tell him the truth, You had second thoughts after commiting, and just put off calling until it got too late. Say you don't feel that now is a good time for you to explore a relationship with him, and promise to call should things change for you. I'd much rather be hurt with the truth, than comforted with a lie. Sure, he may feel a slight sting for awhile, but he will respect you for the way you handled it when he looks back on it. Even more, you'll respect you for the way you handled it, when YOU look back on it. Let people know that your "word" is worth it's weight. Your character and integrity are at stake. In the long run, you're only letting yourself down. ; - )