Dear Auntie Kate:

I'm not involved with my cousin, but....I have been involved with a wonderful boy who has left me because he has become romantically involved with his cousin.  Could this be the result of sexual abuse as a child, I know it did take place.  Would counseling help him or does he just need to figure it out on his own.  I still love him deeply.

Dear,

Broken relationships can be very painful; I feel your pain. Your friend is attracted to his cousin for the same reason millions of others are attracted to their cousin. Often times, the chemistry between cousins is much greater than the typical non cousin couple. No, it isn't the result of sexual abuse -- its the alignment of the stars.

I suggest that you cherish the time you had with your ex-boyfriend. He was special. When you are setting on the porch in the old folks home, you will realize that they were all very special. Yes dear, its time to move on and find that next special person. It is a necessary part of growing up.

Uncle KC