Hi everyone,

first, I must say that at first I felt a little 'guilty' for even just searching this on the internet. But, I am confused about my relationship, and have no one to talk to... But after reading some of the posts here, I know i'm not alone, and that love is not always just happiness & joy.

Well, so here is my story. I'm a male, 25 yrs of age; my girlfriend will be turning 37 in a month. We met & started dating 2 years ago. I know some of you will say "date someone your age ... Etc." the thing is I had a lot of female friends around my same age, but never fell in love with any of them. I even had a couple of friends who liked me, but I didnt like them. But when I met my girlfriend, it was like love at first sight. There was just so much chemistry between us and we get along so good.

Now the thing is that she has asked me on a couple of ocassions if I would marry her. I had never thought about getting married at this age ... And to be quite frank, marriage kind of scares me. She's not pushing me, but she wants an honest answer from me. And the thing of it is, I dont know. Given the age difference, I dont want to waste her time, because if she has a chance to get married and be happy I dont want to stand on her way.
At the same time, I love her a lot! And I have considered marrying her, because I love her, but it's just such a big decision in my life. I'm just scared to make the wrong decision.

On the few times that we have touched the subject, we always end up hurt. Because she says that I don't love her enough to want to marry her. I tell her that I just don't feel ready.

I guess now I sort of see why age difference might matter in a relationship. She's ready to settle down; i'm bearly starting up in my career and don't feel ready for that big step. But, at the end of the day, we love each other.

Thanks for just letting me vent ... I just needed to let these feelings/emotions out. Your advise is welcome.