DEAR ABBY: I recently began a relationship with a wonderful man I'll call "Edward." He's smart, successful, sweet and has a wonderful sense of humor. I adore him and can see myself spending many happy years, if not forever, with him.
The problem is my parents. I'm 24 and a recent college graduate. I have a good job and have been living independently since I was 19. Edward is 31, divorced and has two kids (ages 5 and 8). Because of his kids and marital status, my parents refuse to even meet him. They claim I'm making a terrible mistake being involved with someone with so much "baggage."
I am very close to my parents, and their reaction is hurtful. This is the happiest I have been in a long time in a relationship, maybe ever. Neither Edward's kids nor the fact that he's divorced is an issue for me. I've met his children and enjoy spending time with them. He has a civil relationship with his ex-wife, who also has a new partner.
Do you think my parents' reaction is fair? Do you think in time they'll come around? -- BITTERSWEET IN LOVE IN MICHIGAN
DEAR BITTERSWEET: Whether your parents' reaction is fair or not is beside the point. Their feelings are their feelings. The relationship you have with Edward is new, and where it may lead is anybody's guess. If it lasts, your parents may come around. But as an adult, the choice of whom you date or will one day marry should be yours and no one else's.