I struggle with self-esteem, but yesterday I had an experience that served as kind of an affirmation. Yesterday, at one point I looked in the mirror and saw my face, my eyes, my hair, my blue shirt... and I thought: "I look dashing."
I rarely think this, or let myself think it. I always try to remain modest. Part of it is an ongoing, unrequiting longing when it comes to physical and emotional intimacy.
But... I don't know. I see that experience as something of an affirmation.
Hopefully closeness with a girl will follow before long :-).