DEAR ABBY: I've dated a guy for three months now, and I still can't be completely open with him. I am afraid the real me isn't that likable, so I have become less talkative in this relationship.
Each time we go out, he's always the talker, and when sometimes I want to say something, I clam up. I like him a lot, and I don't like myself being this way. I am outgoing and talkative when I'm with my friends. I like the way I am when I am with them because I feel free and relaxed.
He has started to complain about my quietness, and it's upsetting. Each time he mentions it, I feel like I'm exposed. Should I continue this relationship? -- NOT QUIET IN THE MIDWEST
DEAR NOT QUIET: Don't look now, but your self-esteem appears to be sagging. Stop hiding in a self-imposed "closet" and show this person who you really are! Whether the relationship survives the disclosure I can't guess, but I have a premonition that he will like you even better than he has for the last three months.