DEAR ABBY: I was in a passionate relationship for three years with my first real boyfriend. We were very young and desperately in love. I adored him completely, without hesitation. Then we had some irreconcilable differences and parted.
I went though a period of self-reflection and didn't date again for almost four years. During that period, I thought and prayed. Then I met someone special, "Zack." We have been seeing each other for five years now, and our relationship is solid. It's wonderful in every aspect -- except that I am not in love with him.
We plan to be married in six months. I'm not sure if it's the right thing to do though. I have hesitated for years despite pressure from my family.
I enjoy spending time with Zack more than with anyone else. We understand each other and he knows me so well that it's uncanny. We're compatible with the same interests and similar beliefs.
Zack knows that I love him but am not "in love" with him, but he still wants to marry me. Is it wrong to marry your best friend? -- UNSURE IN CALIFORNIA
DEAR UNSURE: No, it's not wrong to marry your best friend. But because you have reservations about marrying Zack, you should be honest and break the engagement. It will be less painful for both of you and far cheaper than divorce.