DEAR ABBY: I have been dating a wealthy, successful businessman for a year. I am a working single mother of two who is financially stable and independent. I own my home, have savings and retirement, and have always been sensible with money.
From the beginning he has told me he was attracted to me because I am "down-to-earth, honest, genuine and not materialistic."
We have recently been discussing marriage. I love him, and feel certain about our relationship in every way. However, I am hesitant about marrying him for one reason: He wants a prenuptial agreement. I have told him that I feel it shouts, "I do not trust you," and it makes me feel that he lacks the desire for a lifetime commitment through thick and thin, good and bad, sickness and health. I also feel it hinders the bond of oneness and unity that a Christian marriage is based upon.
Abby, I truly do not want anything he has worked for and have given him my promise on that issue. I am a compromising person, but I feel very strongly about a "pre-nup." May I add that I did not take my first husband "to the cleaners" after 15 years of marriage.
Please advise me. I want my next marriage to be my last. -- OLD-FASHIONED SOUTHERN LADY
DEAR OLD-FASHIONED: Please rethink your position and do not regard his insistence on having a prenuptial agreement as an insult. The purpose of the document is to protect BOTH parties should the unthinkable occur.