Sometimes our parents don't approve of our relationships. It happens. I promise it happens and it doesn't just happen to you. It happens to the best of us, including me.

Maybe your parents don't like the way your partner dresses, or they don't approve of their morals. Maybe they don't agree with some things they've said, or disapprove of their race, religion, or sexual orientation. Maybe your parents can't come up with an actual reason to why they don't like them, but they still don't. Whatever the case may be in the end, it's not your parent's place to decide on your love life.

Unfortunately, that is the case of my own relationship. Being 2,000 miles away from each of my parents means that only one has met my fiancé. My mother came to visit during the start of our relationship and she seemed to like him well enough. My father is, well, my father. My fiancé and my father met over Skype, and it seemed to have gone all right. However, a few months into our engagement, we split. When we got back together, my parents suddenly hated my fiancé. They disliked everything about him, they've gotten this hateful idea in their heads attached to an unknown origin. Thankfully, I have tons of friends and family around me that are super supportive of my relationship and my decision to marry next year.

Based on my experience, I may have a bit of advice.

If your parents don't like your partner -- for any reason -- here are some things that I'd like to offer:

1. There will always be someone who supports you and your decision to be in a relationship. Even though your parents may not be those people, there is always someone who will stand behind you.

2. Your happiness is your decision. Do whatever makes you happy. No one can decide on who or what makes you happy.

3. Ask your parents why they don't like your partner. As with my parents, they may not always offer you reasons as to why they don't like your partner, but there is never harm in asking.

4. Talk to your parents. This point goes hand in hand with the previous. Talk to them alone, and talk to them with your partner. When you speak with them one on one, you take an initiative of responsibility. It's best to remain calm and collected. Give them every reason why you want to be with your partner. After you talk with your parents, both you and your partner should have a similar and respectful conversation with them. If they still haven't given you a reason as to why they don't like your partner, ask them again. Your partner should talk to your parents as well. You shouldn't be the only one defending your relationship in this conversation. It is best to avoid an argument at all costs, as arguing will lead you nowhere.

5. Do your best to not let your parents' opinion bother you. If you are an adult, be an adult. You are in charge of yourself and your joy. They are no longer your dominator. If you are happy with your partner, that's all that matters. Don't let your parents push their way into your relationship and make the two of you split.

With that, I lend you a few last words:

Go forth and enjoy. Fall in love.

"You, of all people, deserve a happy ending." --Sylvain Reynard