ratel

Aaagh! I hate nosy people! IT'S NONE OF THEIR BUSINESS. You don't owe anyone a THING. Certainly not your true opinion! When slimy men have asked me "do you have a boyfriend?" I either lie and say yes to end the conversation as quickly as possible or say "I'm not looking for a relationship right now" to cut to the chase. "Look, I've got a job to do...excuse me" is another good exit strategy.

Give yourselves time...don't force the issue right now. If she loves being around you, spending time with you, "can't live without you" etc. why not keep enjoying her company? Be content to be friends with each other-- get the good out of whatever kind of relationship you do have. If she ever gets past the religion-- great. If not, at least you still have a real friend. Just be aware it might not be everything you want and be prepared to let new people into your life. At least the two of you have a real emotional connection. Which to my mind is far more important than actually "doing it".

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Nothing to it! LOL

Right! Always remember you don't have to try to be anything one way or the other. Just let yourself fully feel whatever you feel and don't worry about the labels. You are YOU-- people will either respect that, or you just have to say to hell with them and their stupid opinions. Good luck!