DEAR ABBY: I was in a five-year relationship with a man. We broke up because he was unfaithful. Even though I’m ready to forgive and still have feelings for him, my kids don’t like this guy and don’t want me to reconnect with him. My kids say if I do this they won’t want to have a relationship with me anymore.

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

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

There’s a reason your kids don’t like this guy. You’re asking whether you should seek outside guidance and counsel. As the first person you asked, I’m in favor of this too. Your doctor can refer you to someone qualified.

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