Should we marry for her family?

I am a 45-year old man and have been in a relationship with a woman my age for almost 18 years now. We have been living together for over a decade, and this arrangement has worked very well for us because neither of us has been interested in marriage. The sad thing is, her family has never supported this decision because they believe we should marry or end this relationship. They never visit us, and dont even message her or stay in touch because they think its their way of putting pressure on her. My partner has never been upset about this before because she has always known that they are old-fashioned and wont agree with her way of life. It hurts me though, because I know she misses her parents and family. They are getting old, and she feels as if this will never be resolved. I am thinking of asking her to marry me just so they can repair this fractured bond and be a family again. I know she wont accept my reasons, but I cant think of any other way. Is this a bad idea, given that I may feel as if I am being pressured to do something I have never wanted to do?The only person putting this pressure on you is yourself, given that your partner doesnt appear to be asking you to do it. Your reasons may be sound, but this really should be her call, given that it is her family who is refusing to do the right thing. Yes, she may be hurt by their behaviour, but it is also something she will have to come to terms with, and if she isnt willing to marry just to make her family accept her, the onus of doing this isnt on you. Why not tell her what youre thinking about, give her time to process the pros and cons, and do what works best for you both by making a joint decision? Thats how the best partnerships always work. The inbox is now open to take your most carnal and amorous queries. Send your questions on email to lovedoc@mid-day.com

Should we marry for her family?

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