I assume your dad could take the news if things don’t work out with this relationship.

I have to believe you’re more concerned that you might get hurt. Maybe it feels like a jinx to tell people you’re happy … that as soon as you say it, it’ll be taken away.

It makes sense because you’ve made yourself vulnerable. With great love, there is always some disappointment and pain.

Please remember: There’s also a high probability of happiness. If you don’t bring people into your life, you’re creating a similar kind of issue. As in, “Meet my amazing person. We’ve been together two years and I’ve finally decided it’s safe to show him around. Sorry you’ve never met them.”

I’m exaggerating, but the point is, maybe it’s time to dive in and say, “I’d want you all to meet a person I love. Who knows what the future will bring, but this is one of the reasons I’ve been smiling for the past year.” 

One last thought: In my experience, the shoes never drop the way you think they will. In my most blissed out moments, I get scared that something bad will happen to balance the scales. I look for shoes falling from the sky. But if they do, it’s in a different relationship – or in someone else’s.

Shoes are going to fall sometimes, but often they don’t. Let’s notice clear skies when we can. 

– Meredith

Readers? How do you keep yourself from waiting for disaster? How do you sit in a happy moment and believe it will continue? Has introducing an SO to family – or even posting a picture on Instagram – felt like a jinx?

Send questions, thoughts, and feelings to [email protected]  or you can use the anonymous form.