Dear Dorothy,
I never imagined I’d find myself in this situation, but here I am. I have developed strong feelings for my cousin. We’ve always been close, but over the past year, our bond has deepened into something more. We haven’t crossed any lines, but I can’t deny the attraction.
I know some cultures and families accept cousin relationships, while others frown upon them. I’m torn between my feelings and the fear of judgment. I don’t want to hurt my family or make things awkward, but at the same time, I can’t ignore how I feel.
What should I do? Should I bury these feelings or explore them cautiously?
Charis
Dear Charis,
Thank you for your honesty. Love is a complex, unpredictable thing, and it’s understandable that you’re feeling torn. The first step is to take a deep breath and assess the situation with both your heart and your head.
In many societies, relationships between cousins are legally and culturally acceptable, while in others, they are met with discomfort or outright disapproval. You should consider how your family and social circle might react, as this could have a lasting impact on your relationships.
Beyond societal norms, it’s also important to reflect on the potential consequences. Would this relationship affect family dynamics? Would it cause strain or division? If you were to pursue it, are you both prepared for the possible backlash?
There’s also a biological aspect to consider. While cousin relationships aren’t inherently harmful, if marriage and children are in your future plans, seeking medical advice might be a wise step.
Ultimately, only you can decide what is right for you. If your feelings persist, an open and honest conversation with your cousin is crucial. If you choose to move forward, be prepared for challenges, but if you decide to step back, give yourself time to heal. Love is important, but so is peace of mind.
Wishing you clarity,
Dorothy