Dear Miss Emily:

My sister has a really good guy friend I've just come to know. He's a sweet, charming guy that I've fallen for pretty hard but my sister is upset because he was her friend first. She's not interested in him romantically but she has issues about the two of us spending time with one another. I'm not certain whether to respect her wishes or to go with my feelings. I need advice! Thanks.

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

Tough call, because you (more than likely) will be involved with your sister for the rest of your life, and this guy may not be a constant. From an objective point of view, she has no right to dictate whether you can, or cannot have a relationship with him. She's not only controlling your life, but his, as well. I would try to reason with her and let her know, in the nicest way possible, she is wrongly attempting to control two lives, other than her own, and if she could see it from that point of view you'd appreciate it. Again, tell her you'd like to pursue something with him and, if he's on board, you won't inhibit her friendship with him in any way. That said, she's being selfish and possessive (threatened), and it may not change her mind. Bottom line: weigh loss against gain.