My mother wants me to herself

Dear Hillie

I’m in my late 30’s and an only son living at home with my mother. I would have left home years ago but my father died in an accident and my mother became more and more dependent on me. I have tried bringing girlfriends home to meet her but none of them have ever been good enough for her. At times she’s been openly hostile. Recently I met a wonderful girl and, unbeknown to my mother, we’ve been seeing a lot of each other. I am reluctant to introduce them to each other because I feel this relationship is very special. What would you advise me?

Hillie says:

You have been a loyal and supportive son to your mother for many years and now it is time for her to consider your happiness. Tell her about your new girlfriend and explain your reluctance about introducing her. Impress upon her not only how special this girl is to you, but how important is her blessing on you both. Encourage her to feel excited by the possibility of gaining a daughter rather than feeling threatened by the imagined loss of her son. If she is still not prepared to accept your newfound happiness, consider moving out.