Anita,

Thank you. This is a side that I haven’t yet thought of. That is not the case with her mother (I know you said, wild example!) but there is a similar dynamic with her younger sister and I think that side comes out when I’m sharing with her. She thinks she can force her opinions on to me as she tries with her sister, thinking that her way is best. I can see the relation there for sure.

I don’t feel guilty or shameful on a deep level but I have only been in two serious relationships in my life and this is the first time I’ve ever truly dated around so it’s just new to me! Because I do lean towards the more monogamous side, I think that’s where my tension stems from with my new guy. Wanting someone to be and think like me, hoping that they reciprocate my thoughts and behaviors.

I feel better now that I’ve been able to get it all out, and hopefully I can just be at peace with who I am and the current moment and see how things unfold — with my friend and with this new guy. That is all I can do, right?