Dear Auntie Kate:I don't want to lose my family affection over this wonderful relationship with my cousin, What should I do?
Dear FamilyCuz,
Well dear, life sometimes throws us situations that show us who we can really count on and who we can't. Flying in the face of your family's wishes shouldn't cost you their affection, if it is real. You may lose their association, their support and their encouragement for a while. It's unlikely that you will lose their love.
Depending on your age and your relationship to your parents, they may correctly believe that they should guide you through difficult and controversial situations, and maybe they are doing their best to do just that.
There are many correct approaches to the problem of disapproving family. And there is more than one correct approach for every family. Usually a little discretion, mixed with a little honesty is a good one. If you don't have acceptance, the "in your face" approach is probably not a winner. On the other hand, often deceit is much of the injury.
Be wise and be gentle. Do remember that you are talking with people you love, even if you are in conflict.
Your
Aunt Kate
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