We have little control over who we fall in love with. Love doesn't ask permission before striking. Love crosses racial lines, social status, income, and age. Love is blind. That means that the onus is on us to open our eyes and evaluate the decisions we make in love. Sometimes what feels like love is really infatuation or lust, and it is up to us to determine that.

However, if a woman lacks experience in relationships and love, (especially if her childhood home lacked love), infatuation and lust is easily mistaken for the Real Thing. When a woman who has not been involved in many serious relationships starts seeing a much older man, I think there is cause to be concerned. When a man is old enough to be a woman's father, alarm bells should sound.

Even if the woman is honestly attracted, and feels much love/affection for the man, it is a scary situation. A man of that age should look at young women as their daughters. If they don't, if they see them as sexual objects, there is something wrong with them - they are sick. Whether their girlfriends/victims are 5 or 15, these men are pediphiles who are looking to have power over their partner.

So, if you or someone you know is involved in a relationship with a man who is significantly older - old enough to be their father - it is time to open your eyes and see the situation for what it is - dangerous.

Learn more about this author, Merri Sharp.
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