DEAR ABBY: I had a five-year relationship with a man. We broke up because he was unfaithful. Even though I am willing to forgive and still have feelings for him, my children do not like this man and do not want me to reconnect with him. My children say that if I do this, they no longer want to have a relationship with me.

Their ultimatum doesn’t seem fair. I’m afraid I won’t fall in love again and I don’t want to be alone later in life. Should I respect my children’s wishes and forgo a relationship with him, or should I seek outside advice and guidance to see if we can try to form a family, as we had originally planned? I truly feel he is the love of my life. Nobody is perfect. I’m willing to give it another chance, but I want my kids to accept it. I don’t know how or if they ever will. What should I do? — HANGING TOWARDS HER IN TEXAS

DEAR THOUGHT: Fear is the worst reason for a couple to get together. Your relationship didn’t work because he is a cheater. What makes you think this time would be different? There are worse things than being old and alone. There is no guarantee that you won’t meet someone and fall in love.

Your children don’t like this man for a reason. You ask if you should seek outside advice and guidance. As the first person you asked, I’m all for it. Your doctor can refer you to a qualified person.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or PO Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.