Old flames die hard

[Sammich]

I've known this girl since I was 16 (I'm 28 now) and we've "dated" sporadically and rather non-seriously many times over the years. Needless to say, we've established a very comfortably sexual connection that never really went beyond physical gratification.

Well, recently, after a long hiatus, we've had the chance to get "reacquainted" and I noticed a deeper connection, an emotional one, that was never previously at the forefront of our interaction with one another.
I can say with certainty that it was a mutual acknowledgment, and she's hinted at wanting to commit to it.

Problem is, she lives about an hour away and also I'm somewhat suspect of her ability to maintain a meaningful relationship, as she has been known for some particular antics in the past, most of which she told me of herself.

I don't want to just break it off, because we have a lot of past together and I do care for her, but I'm stuck between growing feelings for her, and an uncertainty that I may be wasting my time if I pursue a deeper relationship with her. I want to believe that she's matured enough to make my efforts worth it, but I'm at a point in my life where I need certainties and must focus on my future. But I get the feeling that if I exclude her from it, I will have cemented a no-go for any future possibilities. (Not talking about the sex, although it's a nice bonus)

I can't presume to maintain a purely sexual relationship when feelings are now involved, but I can't seem to entertain the thought of severing contact with her either.

It's sort of an ultimatum that I'm not sure how to go about analyzing.
Any insight?

[dimwit]

In some ways you say it yourself. It is either all or nothing.

When we start relationships with another person, risks are involved. It seems you are finding this potential relationship a bit too risky and you are worried you will get hurt.

The truth is - we cannot protect ourselves. You could meet the most loyal and stable person and still end up getting hurt. You can also date this girl, and end up having a wonderful relationship. There is no way of knowing. But only one way to find out

If I were you, I would say - go for it. Push doubts aside and give it your all. Just don't do it, if you feel you can only do it half-heartedly.

[Raze]

Give it your all. I say go full throttle and what happens happens.