Dear Christine,
I AM a young woman in my late 30s who has fallen completely in love with a man 13 years younger than I am. I believe that he loves me too, but because of the age difference, I feel that he will eventually leave me for someone younger.
His family is not too keen about us seeing each other and they have not hesitated in letting him know how they feel about me. I am independent, have my own car and home. I also have a very good job but no children.
My friend, on the other hand, has a good-paying job and his own car, but he still lives at home.
I am not sure what the hang-ups are with his family but I gather that they are pretty close-knit. He confided in me that they prefer another girl (more his age), but that he is interested in me and not her.
I sometimes think that I should just call it quits since I cannot stand the pressures of knowing his family will never accept me. What do you think I should do?
My friend tells me that he is willing to stick with me even to the point of marriage. Should I continue this friendship?
– Lisa
Dear Lisa,
I see absolutely nothing wrong with you caring and loving a man who is 13 years younger than you are. Some people seem to think it is okay for an older man to marry a younger woman, but it’s not okay when it is the other way around.
If your friend has sat down with you and even suggested marriage, it tells me he is serious. Why should you not say “yes” if you really love him, as you’ve stated?
His family will have to accept the fact that it is his decision to make. I am sure that one day they will come around to accepting you. Do not give up on love or your own happiness for their sakes; after all, it’s you he says he wants and loves.
– CHRISTINE
