16 years older

[Sarah]

I've met someone who is much much older than me-- 16 years older. We have some things in common, and I think that it's going to be a good match. I'm not sure what to tell my family though

[polly1]

You didn`t say your age. I think it all depends on how old you are if he is the older one. I know some people that have a big age difference that are doing just fine. But a lot of times that age difference can really put a damper on things as the relationship progresses. Stress levels, children, family, etc. So many I can`t name them all. You have to think about what your relationship will be like when you are his age. Also how old he will be. We change so much as we age. We want different things, we no longer want other things. I hope I am making sense here.

[Ronnie]

That is the big thing... how old are you. If you are older (not a teenager) then I say go for it. You can make your own choices. You do what you think is right for you. No one should tell you it's not ok. 2 of my closest friends are 13 years apart and they are the most happy too.

[Sadie]

I think you need to take into consideration everything that Polly said. Once you evaluate the situation, if you decide that this might be the right person for you, I would simply tell your family that you are happy. Surely they can overlook whatever reservations they might have for the sake of your happiness.

[maggie]

I have 2 friends I know who have this sort of age difference in their relationship. One friend set are 28 and 44. The other friend set got married when they were 63 and 79. They have been happily married for 6 years now. I think that it can work-- depending on the people involved.

[Sarah]

I am 30 years old and he is 46 years old. I do like him a lot, but we've only been doing "friends" things recently. I haven't gotten much further yet and I don't know that we'll move quickly. He is wonderful, but I don't want to rush.

[Witty]

I say go for it and do not rush or worry about "friend things" just yet. You are supposed to be doing "friend things" and creating memories early on. Age should not play a factor, if you like him and he likes you and respects you and treats you well, do not let age get in the way of a great thing.

[Nancy]

If one of my daughters came home and told me they met someone 16 years older than them I would hold judgement until I got to know the person. As long as that person is treating them well and they are happy that is all that matters to me!