Should I reconnect with my ex?

My boyfriend and I were in a relationship for a year but ended it a few months ago because he was insecure about a number of things. We tried our best, but I couldn’t get him to act normal and deal with the issues he was struggling with. We still love each other a lot and I know we could have made it work if he would only try and recognise that the things he worries about don’t matter to me. I want to reach out to him and ask him if we can give this another try but am afraid of just hurting myself again if everything turns out exactly like last time. Is this a good idea?
You can try taking things slow if you still have feelings for him, and if he feels the same way. Part of the problem may be an unnecessary amount of pressure on the relationship, by either of you, and not being in one may allow you both to gain a sense of clarity that is missing. Start with specific questions: how you feel about each other, what you both want, what are the things that went wrong the last time, is there a willingness to learn from the past and work on the future, is there a possibility of seeking help from an outsider, and try coming up with answers to these. If and when you do, you will also have insights into how best to proceed.

Am I stupid for considering a long-distance relationship given that my boyfriend intends to stay away for three years or more? I want it to work, but also know that this could be one of the biggest challenges I may have to face. What should I do?
How does your boyfriend feel about this? A long-distance relationship doesn’t have to be difficult if both partners know what they are working towards. One year or three means little without understanding what the challenges are and preparing to both put in the work required.