I'm Afraid to Tell the Truth

Dear WISY,

I need your advice.  I just graduated college last month and I was expected to find a job right away, but that isn't realistic.  My family has such high expectations of me because I'm the first to graduate from high school AND college.  They don't understand that it's difficult to graduate and land your dream job right away.

Anyway, I've been seeing an older gentleman who is wealthy.  He's been helping me pay bills and staying afloat.  Actually, he's paying all my bills and is spoiling me to death.  I've been sending my parents money and they think I'm getting it from my new job.  I lied and told them I have a job with a reputable company and when I go on trips with my boo, I tell them it's for business.

My parents are coming to see me next month and I'm going to have to tell them the truth.  My boo thinks they already know the truth and is excited to meet them so that's another issue I have.  I'm really nervous about it all.  Please tell me how to approach this with my parents and my boo.

Signed,
Graduate Baby

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WISY's Response:

Dear GB,

Start explaining, love!  The last thing you want is to be caught in a big bag of confusion when your boo and your parents meet.  I'm guessing that you foresee some non approval, hence the reason to deceive your parents in the first place.  All I can say here is that honesty is the best policy.  Explain to your parents that a degree doesn't guarantee a dream job and explain to your boo that your parents may not approve of your relationship.  Ultimately, both will appreciate your honesty.

I encourage you to vigorously pursue your career.  I'm assuming your man has a business of some sort and may be well connected in the area so utilize his network to your advantage.  Don't let the trips and ease he brings deter you from your initial goals.  Being the first in your family to accomplish this level of education translates so much about your character and spirit.  I have a feeling that you are capable of great things.  There's nothing wrong with being pampered and taken care of but I think you'll feel more fulfillment if you provide some of that for yourself.  Just don't get too comfortable.

Walk good,
#TeamWISY