LOVE PANEL
Question:
I'm 24 and I recently met a great guy who is 36. That's a 12 year age difference, I know. But I don't notice it. He's young, great in bed and he makes me happy. My parents and friends, on the other hand, are very upset with me and want me to break it off. My mom says it will never last because of the age difference. Is age really such a big deal in relationships these days? What should I do?
Wondering 10 December, 2007 - 00:00
Wondering 10 December, 2007 - 00:00
Answers:
Empower Yourself to Make Better Choices in Love! Checkout these insightful answers written by renowned
love experts!
Empower Yourself to Make Better Choices in Love! Checkout these insightful answers written by renowned
love experts!
or do they dislike the guy for other reasons? Given women mature faster than men it's natural for women to find older men appealing. Your age difference doesn't sound outrageous but the fact that your friends and family are questioning the relationship begs the question 'why?' What is it that they don't like about him? If it was just one friend who didn't like the idea of you dating him, you could chalk it up to her disparate personal views and preferences. But it sounds like the majority of people in your life who care about you don't think you should be dating him. Dig deeper and find out why they feel this way. They might see something about him that you don't see. Assuming they have your best interests in mind, listen to what they have to say and consider their views before letting the relationship progress further.
Yours or your family's. He's 36, not 56. Good gracious. In my opinion, that's a great age for a guy. They have sometimes grown out of the young guy stuff like having no money, going to Hooters all the time, week long trips with the guys, playing games etc. They are able to make you a priority without you having to ask. Sure, when you are 34, he'll be 46. So what. What's important is that you are compatible and willing to work through your issues. All people have issues and all relationships have issues. This kind of an age difference is not overwhelming, in my opinion. There are so many other things you could focus on, like what you want and being happy. You can't control the outcome of this or any relationship anyway. You are an adult, do what is best for you.
During your twenties, you are going to make big changes in your maturity level and life experience. You will not be the same person when you are thirty. After thrity, you still make changes in your life, but they are not as dramatic. You're going to want different things also. Your man has already gone through his twenties and is probably not ready to relive them. But, who's to judge your love? If it works for you, then keep working it.