Valora,

You insight is beautiful. Not all traumas must be dealt with verbally. Just to read your first paragraph opened my mind and heart! So thank you.

You hit a second good point- there IS an expectation from my family to date a certain type. I will make my best attempt to answer your question. I grew up with traditional values and parents who were not in unison on much but they were on that. They want all of the right things in terms of someone who loves me and treat me well. It is difficult for me to understand exactly why they do not like him and their reasons are vague as well “he’s just not like you”. If I put myself in their shoes I think they are afraid of the possibility of me being drug down by a relationship and they want me in one that (on the surface at least) gives them more assurance of being raised up.

As a last note and in total vulnerability I feel like a teenager writing about this and I am twenty five. This last thought almost makes me want to throw my papers up and move on from the whole thing. I’m too old for this.

I just want to take another moment to thank you sincerely. I wish I could express how much your words move me and help me.

P