DEAR ABBY: I have been dating "Richard" for three years. We began dating when my daughter was 1. He is great with her, and with me. The only problem is he doesn't want to get married.
I love him, but I'm not getting any younger and I want to be married. I want another child and a stable family for my daughter. Richard says he is afraid that the stress of dealing with the both of us would drive him crazy. I gave him an ultimatum -- marry me or let me move on. Was I wrong to do that? -- HAVING SECOND THOUGHTS IN MISSOULA, MONT.
DEAR HAVING SECOND THOUGHTS: If Richard has been able to tolerate the "stress" of dealing with you and your daughter for three years, then he isn't afraid the stress of dealing with the two of you will drive him crazy. He's afraid of commitment.
There is nothing wrong with wanting another child and a stable family for you and your daughter. And if Richard isn't man enough to provide those things for you, then yes, you were right to give him the ultimatum.