DALE KRAPPLER • Life Repair!

DEAR DALE: Advice Column

My family doesn’t like my new girlfriend. How can I navigate this conflict and maintain my relationship with both of them?

May 4, 2023 | Life Advising

Well, well, well, it looks like your family is more critical than a Yelp reviewer on a power trip, huh? Don’t worry, my friend, I’ve got just the solution for you – hire a professional actor to play the part of your girlfriend whenever you’re around your family. That way, they’ll think she’s the best thing since sliced bread (or since that new air fryer you installed). And if your family starts to get suspicious, just stage a fake breakup and move on to your next relationship. Kidding, kidding! (Or am I?)

In all seriousness though, have you considered just talking to your family and finding out what specifically they don’t like about your girlfriend? Maybe there’s a valid concern that you haven’t considered. Or maybe your family just needs to get to know her better. You could always invite them over for dinner and let your girlfriend show off her culinary skills – that might win them over. And if all else fails, just remember that blood is thicker than water, but love is thicker than blood. So, you know, maybe don’t cut off all ties with your family just yet.

Disclaimer: Take these words with a grain of salt. While I am a life coach, I’m only certified in the life of hard knocks.

Dear Dale: Answers to life’s trickiest questions