Manners Matter: Non Impressive Boyfriend

Dear Mary Pat,

My parents don’t like the man I’ve been dating for the last six months. I’m in my 30s so I don’t necessarily “need” my parents approval, however, I would like it. He’s a really nice guy but I can tell that my dad isn’t impressed with him and doesn’t think he’s good enough. My mom doesn’t say much, which is a clear sign that she’s not very impressed either. I think they got the wrong impression when they first met him.  They’ve never said anything but I feel like they think I’m settling. How can I show them that he’s worth getting to know? Our relationship is getting more serious and it’s time they accept him.

Signed,

Disappointed Daughter

Dear Disappointed Daughter,

Try as we might, we can’t control how people think or what they do. You are an adult and I’m sure that your parents will eventually be happy with this man if you’re happy with this man. Don’t try to “sell them” on your boyfriend or force them to become closer. If he is worthy of your time and attention, maybe your parents will eventually see that they didn’t give this man a fair shake initially.

Your time would be better spent focusing on getting to know your boyfriend better and not worrying so much about what your parents think.

Good luck,

Mary Pat