Anita: Thank you for your feedback! Yes I do believe he is somewhat of my security blanket. I don’t get along with my mother and my father died when I was a kid so I had very little support until I met him. We have been together for a lot of the biggest lessons in both our lives so its hard to leave that comfort zone. However, I would like to have a more equal and balanced relationship where we take care of each other instead of him always looking out for my needs. I know in order to become a more independent person, I have to “leave the nest” but it is a scary prospect for me. I don’t know who I am as a single person, I’ve always defined myself in relation to others in my family or in a relationship so this is a big step for me. I look forward to the challenge but I am also extremely anxious.

Alison:Thank you for your kind words! Its reassuring to know that I am headed in the right direction even though I sometimes don’t think I am. I am really dedicated to living a life on my own terms and I know if I make hard decisions now, I’ll be setting myself up for a better life down the road, its just hard to wrap my head around all that at my age! I always appreciate the support of the wonderful people like you guys here on Tiny Buddha, always willing to lend a little perspective. Thank you both!