Sage

Yay for finding a relationship that makes you happy! That's so very important, doubly so when your last relationship was crappy.

The age thing- if it works for ya, roll with it. Just enjoy being together right now, and enjoy being young!

The parents thing- either your parents are going to be happy to see you happy and not care about this guy's religion and age, or they're going to get uptight and not approve because this guy doesn't meet "their" vision of the guy that "should be" dating their daughter. If they really love you unconditonally, then they'll share in your happiness and keep their misgivings to themselves. However, there's also the possibility they'll be miopic about the whole situation and see everything through their religion-colored glasses, and be very disapproving. It's unfortunate, but it happens.

If you are no longer the same religion as your parents, who the fuck cares? One of the hardest things to do when you "grow up" is realize your parents are people too, capable of being selfish, bigoted, and flawed. You can still love them despite the less desireable bits however, and realize that you no longer have to get your parents approval for everything you do. If you like this guy, well hell, enjoy it! If you start getting serious with him, then parents are going to be just a little more imporant than they are now, and they're about .01% important to your relationship right now.

Have fun! You're only 21 once in your life- ENJOY IT!

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