11 stories of when love and family just don’t mix

Few things matter more than love. To quote a classic song, ‘love lifts us up where we belong.’ Whether it’s feelings for that special someone or caring for your family as a whole, love can keep us going during dark days and rough stretches.

And when you meet a person you’re crazy about, naturally you want to introduce them to your family. That’s the dream come true: a significant other that adores you, and a family that loves and supports you through thick and thin. But what happens when they clash? How do you deal when your parents hate your significant other, or your main squeeze despises your family? Then it comes down to creative problem-solving —and in some cases, making a devastatingly hard decision. Here are a few stories from Whisper on when love and family just don’t mix, and how people cope with this heartbreaking conundrum.

The pen is mightier than the sword, but is love mightier than some really compelling real estate offers? What do you pick when love and family involve the option of becoming a homeowner?

Sometimes they get so caught up in loathing each other that they start to overlook you. When that happens, remember that you are worth their love and attention — and if they can’t see that, it’s time to make some serious changes.

Sometimes it’s easier to lie about your boyfriend then fight with your family, especially if you have to share a home with them.

Love and family can be complicated, and forgiveness can be way easier said than done.

It sucks more than we can begin to say, but racism is still alive and well — and it can be devastating when your family won’t accept the person you love because of it.

Love may seem like everything, but make sure you’re significant other is in it for the long haul before you walk away from your family.

Even the strongest and sturdiest relationship can suffer when your boyfriend loves ripping into your family.

How can you choose between the person you love and your family? And more importantly, why should you have to?

Age is just a number, but try telling that to your parental units when your significant other has a few years on you.

Sometimes having to choose can put our relationship with our family into sharp perspective —and we might not like what we see.

At the end of the day, it’s your life and your happiness. Deciding between love and family is one of the hardest decisions you can make, so follow your heart and do what’s best for you.

Love and family are both hard enough on their own.When they don;t mix, it’s always a tough call.