Should I move in with my Ugandan wife before meeting her family?

Ans: Hello,

I understand that you are facing a complex and emotionally challenging situation in your long-term relationship. It's clear that your girlfriend has expressed a desire for you to be more integrated into her life, including staying in her house with her husband's approval. This is a unique and sensitive situation, and it's important to approach it with care and consideration.

Here are some suggestions to help you navigate this situation:

Open Communication: It's crucial to have an honest and open conversation with your girlfriend about your feelings and concerns. Ask her to clarify her reasons for wanting you to stay in her house. Listen to her perspective and try to understand her motivations better.
Express Your Fears: Share your fears and anxieties about meeting her and staying in her house. Let her know that you feel scared and uneasy about the situation. Honest communication can help both of you gain a better understanding of each other's feelings.
Set Boundaries: Consider discussing boundaries with your girlfriend. If you are uncomfortable with certain aspects of the arrangement, make those boundaries clear. It's essential to prioritize your own emotional well-being and comfort.
Seek Professional Guidance: You might benefit from seeking the advice of a relationship counselor or therapist. A professional can provide you both with a safe space to explore your feelings and help facilitate communication and understanding between you and your girlfriend.
Self-Reflection: Take some time for self-reflection to understand your own feelings and desires in the relationship. Consider what makes you happy and what you want for your future. This will help you make informed decisions about the relationship.
Consider the Long Term: Think about the long-term implications of your decision. Are there aspects of the relationship that bring you joy and fulfillment? Weigh the pros and cons carefully before making any final decisions.
Consider the Impact on Others: Take into account how your decisions may affect your daughter and other family members. Their input and feelings should also be considered as you navigate this situation.
Decision-Making: Ultimately, the decision regarding the future of your relationship should be based on what feels right for you. It's important to prioritize your own happiness and comfort while being mindful of the feelings of those involved.
Ultimately, it's essential to prioritize your own emotional well-being and happiness. If you feel that this situation is causing you significant fear and discomfort, it may be necessary to reevaluate the relationship and make a decision that aligns with your needs and values.

Remember that you have the right to make choices that are best for you and your well-being, and it's okay to seek support from professionals and loved ones during this challenging time

Ans: He is her father. To maintain relations with him or not should be her prerogative, not yours. I can understand that he may have wronged you in the past, but maybe he wants to make amends. Shouldn’t he be allowed an opportunity to do so? Would you cut all ties with your parents at the behest of your wife? I don’t think so. Family ties can be complicated; be the bigger man here, and accept harmony. You don’t have to become his best friend, just be civil and extend the courtesy he deserves as your wife’s father. Your job is to support her, not make life difficult for her. It sounds like she has been through a lot as a child.

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Do you not worry about what will happen if this maid opens her mouth and cries foul? And here you are talking marriage behind your wife's back? How do you think your wife will react? Obviously she has been your companion for decades...you think she is going to welcome the 'new' bride?
You have seen life through all its ups and downs to know that being mature and practical is what will work here! So, what will be the most mature and practical thing to do? You know what to do and I am sure that you were just checking in here with me to simply align with the way you are thinking about this...

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Many people get cold feet before getting married. It is very normal. All your questions are valid but you need to understand that in every relationship, it all comes down to trust. Whether you marry this woman or someone else, you have to trust her. And no one can really tell what the future holds. So we focus on the present and hope for the best.

I suggest speaking to your would-be partner a little more in the meantime. Getting to know her will put these doubts to rest. I'm sure she is equally concerned about what kind of person you are. Moreover, it is always a good idea to get to know each other better before committing for a lifetime. And, in case, you still think you need to postpone the event, do not shy away from doing so. It is better to take some time and make the right decision than to make a wrong decision in a hurry.

Hope this helps.
Best Wishes.