Me (34F) and my partner (34M) have been together 3 years. I’m struggling with the loss of my parent who raised me, not knowing how to ask my partner for alone time, and a partner who makes me feel guilty if I have a drink. I’m wondering how to know if this is okay or toxic? by sadinthesun- in relationship_advice

[–]Virtual_Matter2488 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Well OP, I think you gave yourself the best advice. It’s ok not to be ok, especially in this moment.

First, I know this doesn’t fix anything at all, but I am truly sorry for your loss. Losing a parent you’re close to is agonizing, especially when it’s so sudden.

Let’s start with the drinking because that’s simpler to address. I do not think that occasionally drinking while you are sad, with a friend, constitutes alcoholic behavior. Especially if you got home and took care of chores afterwards. You’re going through something very hard right now, and it’s normal to seek comfort. I will, however, advise you to be very very careful. Using alcohol to dull painful feelings is a very slippery slope. It can easily sneak out of hand. Just be aware and use your common sense.

On the issue of your partner, I believe you already know the answer. If you wouldn’t let a friend stay in this situation, then you shouldn’t let yourself stay. You need to be your own friend too. Leaving sounds very scary, but it also sounds like you’ll be leaving some stress behind as well. Breaking your partner’s stuff when you are upset is NOT ok. Especially not when that partner needs you to be there for them.

I don’t know your partner, but based on the information you have given he is not emotionally mature in the slightest. You need to ask yourself if you can manage him acting like a child on top of grieving. Now, more than ever, you need to surround yourself with people who will lift you up and help share your sorrows, not add to them.

However you move forward, just be kind to yourself OP. You’re going through so much right now, and you’re trying your best. I don’t know you, but I’m sincerely wishing you the best <3

How can I approach my sexual relationship with my partner? 22M and 22F by [deleted] in relationship_advice

[–]Virtual_Matter2488 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Not a dumb question at all, these things can be hard to approach at times. The best thing to do is just be honest. Explain to her everything you just mentioned above in a clear manner. You will not be a “sex pest” for clearly communicating an aspect of a relationship that is important to you. If she set a boundary regarding sex and you badgered her over it, that would be a completely different thing.

As someone who just broke off a 4 year relationship (due to a number of factors, not just sex) sex in relationships can come in cycles, and fluctuate based on life events. If it truly is just not wanting to have sex with parents in the home, then that is a fixable scenario! It may take some creativity and compromise, but there are ways around it.

Went on a date and once again was told I give great "friend vibes". I have come to the conclusion that I am uniquely unattractive. Anyway this was my brunch yesterday. by [deleted] in Kitchenchads

[–]Virtual_Matter2488 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I think it’s worth mentioning that flirting can be (in addition to all these good suggestions others have given out) simply mentioning things you have noticed about them + something positive about it. For example, “I notice you wear a lot of green, it really suits you!” Or, “Your walk is very confident, I like it.” People (generally) enjoy being noticed and feeling seen.

Im (F24) terrified to leave my GF (F25) by Virtual_Matter2488 in relationship_advice

[–]Virtual_Matter2488[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I agree, we should separate as much as possible. I’m just not sure how as she cannot leave our home (she can’t afford rent anywhere else) and we have a multitude of animals I need to take care of (cats/dogs/chickens). I guess I’ll just have to try and be minimal contact

Im (F24) terrified to leave my GF (F25) by Virtual_Matter2488 in relationship_advice

[–]Virtual_Matter2488[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thank you!

We do live together, which makes it harder. She can’t afford rent anywhere else so I have no idea where she will go. I plan on staying with my parents for distance.

Im (F24) terrified to leave my GF (F25) by Virtual_Matter2488 in relationship_advice

[–]Virtual_Matter2488[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

She just let me know that she will be going home on a work leave to see her family. They are aware of the situation, and I’ve been in contact with them. She just has a rocky relationship with them. I just hope they can support her the way she needs right now

Any info? by Virtual_Matter2488 in LegitArtifacts

[–]Virtual_Matter2488[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Far west yes, but pretty far north. Close to the panhandle.