Navigating Relationship Challenges: When Paths Diverge

Question
I am 46 yrs. old and have raised my children on my own. My boyfriend of 6 yrs. has half custody of his. We have had a rollercoaster relationship,but I also have been sober for 4yrs. of this relationship where he is still very much a drinker. I want get married and does not.He wants to stay very much committed. He knows that I want to get married,and feel that I must noty be one for him. Also we both have teens and have been through our ups & downs.I love him and I know he loves me.What do I do! Should I stay away and mean it even if it's painful knowing he will be w/ someone else and possilbe marry?

Answer
Hi Colette~

If he hasn't married you in the 6 yrs you've been together, by now.   Then chances are he's not ever going to marry you.  This is why he's refusing to get married right now.  He knows he can keep putting it off.  Besides, I don't know that (if I were in your situation) I couldn't continue to be with someone that refused to be committed and married to me.   

I guess the important thing here is to go with your heart and do what's right for you and what makes you happy.  Whatever that may be.  If he can't commit and marry you then perhaps he's not the right man for you after all.  If he ends up with someone else down the road, then so be it.  That would be something that is beyond your control.  It's unlikely that he would marry someone else, when he refuses to marry you, so I don't think you have too much to worry about there.  If you have any further questions please feel free to ask.