PHOTOGRAPH: VICTORIA BIRKINSHAW
MARY FENWICK is a business coach, journalist, fundraiser, mother, divorcee and widow
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Q I’m in a celibate relationship and have been for a couple of years. I think it’s romantic love and I feel cared for, which is something that was missing in my life, as I had a violent upbringing. There is a medical problem that could be resolved, but my partner is unwilling to take action despite my pleading, as he is afraid.
I am becoming lonelier and lonelier and my self-esteem has dwindled. I’ve also started to get angry when there are silences between us – he is less chatty than I am – as it just feels like another rejection. Recently, I’ve begun acting inappropriately and am afraid that I’ll be unfaithful, which also makes me feel guilty. What should I do? I’m too young to live like this. I love him, but don’t we deserve the whole package? Or is that a myth? Name supplied