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Q: I have been in a relationship with a wonderful woman for the past seven months. She is always telling me how much she loves me and wants to be with me for the rest of her life. My problem is I don't know if I actually love her back. I tell her I love her, and for the most part I think I do. I really don't want to keep a relationship going because I am unsure, but I don't want to lose her. What do you think I should do? -- Robert, 25

Dr. Susan: You need to be more honest with her. It's simply unfair to tell her you love her when you're not sure you do. I suggest a gentle conversation about your relationship. Let her know you're just not sure about "forever" yet, but you don't want to lose her. It often takes longer than half a year to be ready to make a commitment that you are able to stick with for the rest of your life. Tell her you love being with her, but need more time before you can be absolutely certain. She may be hurt, and she may want reassurance that you're not seeing other women. Just don't make the mistake of giving her a list of reasons you're not sure she's perfect enough for you. She'd never forget them.