Search Results: problems in marriage conflict

The strain on my mom's marriage intensifies as the clash in beliefs between her and my stepdad becomes more apparent. Their differences extend beyond mere disagreements, delving into fundamental values, such as attitudes towards minorities and religious perspectives. The household atmosphere is palpably affected, with authenticity in the relationship seeming to erode each day.

These disparities manifest in the upbringing of my younger brother, who, at the age of 12, is already adopting offensive language, mirroring the conflicting ideologies he is exposed to. His use of derogatory terms on platforms like Roblox is alarming, reflecting the influence of the divisive beliefs within our family.

Attempts to address these issues face significant roadblocks. Both my mom and stepdad resist acknowledging the problem, creating a challenging environment for open communication. The stepdad's controlling behavior adds another layer of complexity, as he imposes restrictions on his son's friendships based on prejudiced views, particularly towards black and gay individuals.

Cultural differences exacerbate the situation, with biases emerging within the family, especially on the Armenian-Lebanese side. This has led me to distance myself from my Armenian heritage, feeling ashamed due to the prevalence of racism, selfishness, and conspiracy theories within that part of my family.

As I navigate this complex family dynamic, the struggle to balance conflicting values and maintain a semblance of harmony becomes increasingly challenging. The reluctance to address these issues head-on adds a layer of tension to an already difficult situation.

I am very conflicted at the moment about what I should do. I have always been serious in dating for marriage. But until now there has been no one suitable after searching for years.

A bit of background :
Every interested single I have met either has been run through by Chad and Tyrone, is a single mother with a few kids or is obese or all of the above.

At 6 feet tall with a body forged from lifting weights. With both university and professional degrees. A permanent job as part of senior management for a conglomerate. And the best being debt free.

All this takes time and I only dipped my toes into the dating pool at 28 after reaching management level.

Now the dilemma:
I think everyone has an idea what kind of girl I am looking for with my kind of profile and the perks I bring to the table. The problem is there aren't any.

My parents (left leaning which is shocking) are telling me to look at 30 year old women as candidates for being my wife and not care about virginity, her past or it will get worse for me later.

My friends are advising me to only play with them for sex only. I have never had a relationship like this before and have so far resisted but as the years go by I am getting more and more tempted to just date for sex. I am not getting any younger.

I can say without question that I do not want to marry women who reached 30 or those who cannot even take care of their health or morals.

Should I just lower my standards to date women, enjoy the sex and if someone better comes just replace the current woman I am dating?

My parents are against this of course, my friends are for me doing this.

Currently interested in a few women but recently found out that all of them have already been run through by Chad and Tyrone.

Spoiler alert: I have no sex skills since I don't play around, smoke, gamble or drink.

In business we write a MOU to communicate expectations clearly. So much of the problems in these often perplexing and confoudning times of relationships evolves around expectations, trust, and breaking assumed contract. If there is a stated position and even better... consequences, it would seem to resolve a lot of matters. Here's an example for which you can improve I'm sure. It doesn't have to be legal.

There are so many flavors of relationship now, it's baffling.

Intention of Relationship: Committed 2 people __ swingers __ Open MFM ___, FMF ___ Poly ___
Hookup only _____ friends with benefits _______ # of parties intended 1, 2, 3, X
[im sure there are more options here]

Termination of relationship: Provided in writing may be accompanied by phone call.

Ghosting Permitted: Y / N
Blocking Permitted: Y / N for periods of time

Therapy: Therapy has been discussed as a potential method of resolving conflicts: Y / N

Bond: Each will float a $100 bond to be held in escrow. Violation of contract prior to disbanding relationship results in forfeiture of bond. In event one party has mis represented their position, they forfeit their bond.

Signed: Him: ____________ Date: _________ Her: _______________ Date: _______

I am not saying have a lawyer draw this up, that it can't be changed or someone change their mind, nor is it legally binding. I'm saying... communicate and be honest. Other topics like... sex before marriage, living together and such seem appropriate.