Dear Miss Emily,

I started dating this girl back in April who happened to be my sister's best friend. Her and my sisters remind pretty close while we dated. We had our issues and broke up last month. We just recently started talking, hanging out and working on the issues we had. Once we broke up, my sister started to hate her because she was upset that she and I broke up and was really upset to see me so hurt. My ex and I want to get back together  -- however, she said she can't be with me and have my sister hate her. I tried talking to my sister about it, and she wants nothing to do with her. This girl is the girl of my dreams, and I really don't know how to make this work out.

-----------------------------Miss Emily's advice---------------------

You didn't say what the issues were, but I truly do hope that you and she could make it work a second time around -- because that is often difficult. You are in a horrible position, because you have done all you can do. This is not uncommon when there's a break-up, and people take sides -- especially if there is any "bad-mouthing" of the ex and/or a heart is broken. Then, if that "broken heart" decides to reunite with the ex, everyone wonders why he (or she) has such a short memory and, somehow, the support they gave now makes them feel betrayed, and incapable of going along for a second go-round. In truth, we're all human and vulnerable to the same experience. If it doesn't work out a second time, most friends (or family) will simply say, "I told you so!" Your ex is thinking only of her feelings and not taking yours into consideration (perhaps one of your issues with her?)  If she did, she would make every effort to communicate with your sister -- either in person, or letter -- and see if they can heal the wound, together. After all, they were best friends! It may be a long shot, but it's worth a try. If your sister is still obstinate (will not bend), tell your ex that this is truly a matter between you and her, and she cannot take your sister's problem with her into consideration -- if she is earnest about getting back together with you. Her desire to be with you must supersede your sister's opinion of her. If she's not willing to understand that, I don't know if there's anything you can do to change it. I believe your sister would, eventually, come around if she saw that you and this girl were making it work.  In the future, it's always wise to keep some matters-of-the-heart close to the vest  -- until you are absolutely sure you would never consider, for example,  reintroducing the ex as the "woman of your dreams."