My parents don’t like my boyfriend because of his background and I feel helpless

My parents dislike my poor boyfriend

I’m 21 years old, I have been dating my boyfriend (25), since we were in high school. I’m in university and I come from a relatively ‘good background’.  As for him, he did not make it to the university due to financial problems and he is not from a well-do background. He currently works as a cashier. My parents are not happy about it due to his background, especially lack of proper education. We have tried breaking up, but we find our selves together. I love him and he loves me back. I am confused about what to do. Please help. Shiko, Nairobi

Just because a man is not university-educated does not mean he can’t be a great partner or even successful. However, your parents could have a valid point. What will happen when you finish university, and get a better paying job than him, can you live with that? Further, you are too young to make any kind of serious commitment. Do not rush into anything just yet, and give yourself time to grow first.

Married ex refuses to let me move on

I used to be involved with this woman at work. Four months into our relationship, I found out she was engaged. She eventually got married, and I broke up with her. Last month she begun to call me. She is still married, but is claiming she misses me, and wants us to get back together. She has gotten into my head, now I can’t stop thinking about her. I am confused. How do I stop this obsession? Jonathan, Nairobi

My friend, run. She will never leave her husband for you; didn’t she prove that last year? Stop communicating with her and move on.

Help! Sister-in-law is getting on my nerves

My husband’s whole family is wonderful to me except for his eldest sister. She is verbally abusive, a liar and very manipulative especially towards me. My in-laws never tell her off, but make excuses for her and so she thinks her behaviour is acceptable. Yet she constantly invites herself to our house. Please advise. Halima, Kisumu

Is it your house or her house? You need to read her the riot act and put her in her place. When it comes to matters to do with in-laws, you must have boundaries.

I’m attracted to my sister in-law

I am 35, and I have been married to my wife for a year and we have a son. My wife’s younger sister is 19, she just joined campus, and sometimes she sleeps over at our house. My problem is that I am attracted to her. I am thinking of approaching her for a hidden relationship. Please advise. Arnold, Nairobi

You must be crazy! You are treading on dangerous ground. Do you want to lose your family? There are some lines you just don’t cross. If you cross this particular one, you may get your fantasy, but lose everything else at the same time!