Former Texas A&M safety Jacoby Mathews is transferring to Auburn football according to 247sports.
Mathews was No. 1-ranked safety in the class of 2022, signing with Texas A&M under current Auburn defensive coordinator DJ Durkin.
After playing in 21 games with the Aggies, Mathews totaled 66 tackles, eight pass breakups and an interception. He transferred after the 2023 season and spent one year in junior college.
Mathews joins a loaded safety room led by Kaleb Harris and Sylvester Smith as the two favorites to start this fall.
Kensley Louidor-Faustin, true freshmen Anquon Fegans and Eric Winters are also potential contributors who played well during the spring football period. Auburn also added former Georgia Tech safety Taye Seymore in the first transfer portal window.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
ASICS top-rated running shoe, the Gel-Pulse 16, is now on sale for its lowest price yet, but only while supplies last.
With this online sneaker deal, you can score a pair of men’s or women’s ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 running shoes for $89 instead of its normal list price of $100. Both the men’s and women’s shoes are available in 11 colors to choose from, all of which are available at the same discount.
ASICS women’s Gel-Pulse 16 running shoe
$100 $89.95
The ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 running shoe is on sale at an all new discount this week.
The ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 is a cushioned trainer designed for road running, but can be worn as a versatile workout shoe. The shoe provides regular cushioning and is designed for both neutral and underpronation. The upper is made of engineered mesh, with at least 20% recycled content, which enhances breathability.
“The Gel-Pulse 16 shoe creates the comfort you need to keep your mind focused on your workout. Whether you’re on a run or at the gym, this shoe offers good cushioning for a smooth feel,” ASICS states.
“This shoe is designed with an engineered mesh, which improves airflow to keep your feet cool. It also wraps your foot with a soft and comfortable fit. Underfoot, the FLYTEFOAM® cushioning is paired GEL® technology to produce a soft feel underfoot.”
The Gel-Pulse 16’s engineered mesh upper significantly improves airflow, keeping your feet cool and comfortable during workouts. This feature ensures a more pleasant running or gym experience by preventing overheating and reducing moisture buildup.
The Gel-Pulse 16 is also one of ASICS top-rated running shoes with an impressive 4.6 star rating overall on ASISCS’ website.
One promising review states, “Absolutely love this sneaker! I only wear ASICS. And, I have a couple of different styles. I must say that this is one of my top two! Nice and lightweight, had a nice arch! And, I can wear these shoes all day and no sore feet or back!! That’s huge for me since I have a bad back and bad knees. Strongly recommend these!!”
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
A report from the National Weather Service was issued on Tuesday at 2:17 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 2:45 p.m. for Lee and Russell counties.
Wind gusts of up to 40 mph and pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) are probable.
“At 2:17 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm over Smiths Station, or over Smiths. This thunderstorm was nearly stationary,” according to the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”
Locations impacted by the alert include Phenix City, Smiths, Smiths Station, Ladonia, Bleecker, Goat Rock Lake, Monterey Heights and Ladonia Sports Complex.
The weather service comments, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. Torrential rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways. Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe shelter inside a building or vehicle.”
Preparing for approaching lightning: Expert safety advice
Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest moves away.
To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, consider the following recommendations:
Lightning safety plan:
When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
Stay vigilant by monitoring the sky for ominous signs and listening for the telltale sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s a clear indication of nearby lightning.
Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.
Indoors safety measures:
Once you’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.
Wait for the all-clear:
After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.
When indoor shelter isn’t available:
If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:
Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don’t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.
In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of lightning-related accidents and prioritize your safety.
Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain
When heavy rain sets in, the risk of flooding and hazardous driving conditions rises. Whether it’s prolonged rainfall or rapid runoff, being prepared is essential. Here are some valuable safety tips from the weather service to ensure you stay safe in heavy rain:
Beware of swollen waterways:
In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.
Maintain safe driving distances:
Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.
Slow down and stay cautious:
On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.
Choose your lane wisely:
Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.
Prioritize visibility
Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.
Watch out for slippery roads:
Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.
Mind your windshield wipers:
Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.
If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.
By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.
Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
Darren Waller retired last offseason, but he’s returning to the NFL to play for Miami in 2025. The Dolphins sent a sixth-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft to the New York Giants for Waller and a conditional seventh-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft. While the teams have not announced the deal, the New York Post, NFL Network and ESPN reported the details.
Waller had 52 receptions for 552 yards and one touchdown for the Giants in 2023, the most recent of his eight NFL seasons.
In 2020, Waller earned Pro Bowl recognition when he had 107 receptions for 1,196 yards and nine touchdowns for the Las Vegas Raiders. In 86 NFL regular-season games, Waller had 350 receptions for 4,124 yards and 20 touchdowns.
In his eighth NFL season, Smith earned Pro Bowl recognition for the first time in 2024, when he caught 88 passes for 884 yards and eight touchdowns. In 124 NFL regular-season games, Smith has 307 receptions for 3,307 yards and 28 touchdowns.
On Monday, Miami traded Smith, cornerback Jalen Ramsey and a seventh-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft to the Steelers for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a fifth-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Waller will join the tight end targets for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa already on the Dolphins’ roster – Pharaoh Brown, Tanner Conner, Jalin Conyers, Julian Hill and Hayden Rucci.
In 2024, Brown had eight receptions for 65 yards for the Seattle Seahawks, and Hill had 12 receptions for 100 yards and Conner had three receptions for 16 yards for Miami. Conyers is a rookie, and Rucci was on the Dolphins’ practice squad last season.
FOR MORE OF AL.COM’S COVERAGE OF THE NFL, GO TO OUR NFL PAGE
Mark Inabinett is a sports reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on X at @AMarkG1.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
A brand new episode of the hit mystery series The Secret of Skinwalker Ranch premieres on the History Channel Tuesday, July 1 at 8/7c.
Those hoping to tune in to this week’s new episode can stream the hit History series even without access to traditional cable through Philo (free trial), DirecTV (free trial) or Sling (50% off first month).
Previous episode recap
Last week’s episode titled “Bursting the Bubble,” included startling finds that led the team to bring in Ben Woodruff. After finding decayed remains of an unfamiliar wolf-like creature on the southern end of the ranch, Woodruff was called into examine the remains and shed some expertise before samples were sent off for genetic analysis.
The results showed only a small percentage of the creature’s DNA matched known species in the extensive database, leading the team to believe the presence of the unique creature could be ancient and undiscovered entirely.
With such an extraordinary find, the investigation shifted its focus and led the team to question if there could possibly be other unknown entities around the property.
What to expect from this week’s new episode
On this week’s new episode, the team sets about deploying a cutting-edge new technology on Skinwalker Ranch to study the mysterious bubble, and to their surprise, it leads to an unsettling revelation.
How to watch The Secret of Skinwalker Ranch season 6
Those interested in keeping up with the team’s findings this season can stream new episodes as they release weekly through Philo, DirecTV or Sling.
Both Philo and DirecTV offer free trials while Sling offers those that commit to a paid subscription half off their first month and one month free of AMC+.
Out of the three streaming services mentioned above, Philo is the cheapest option at just $28 a month after its 7-day free trial concludes.
What is Philo?
Philo is considered one of the most affordable streaming platforms on the market. Known as an entertainment-focused streaming service, Philo offers its subscribers access to over 70 top-rated TV channels such as TLC, MTV, BET, AMC, CMT, Investigation Discovery and more.
New users can enjoy Philo’s 7-day free trial and continue to stream top channels, hit TV shows and movies on-demand for just $28 a month once the free trial expires.
Those looking to customize their flow of content even further on Philo can consider including add-ons such as MGM+, STARZ, and AMC+ in their subscription.
What is DirecTV?
DirecTV is a top streaming service perfect for those looking to access a plethora of live TV channels and enjoy helpful features. The base package starts at just $86.99 a month after its 5-day free trial and includes popular TV channels such as HGTV, ESPN, Bravo, CMT, CNBC, BET, CNN and more.
DirecTV has also recently introduced a lineup of genre packs, which allows subscribers to choose their favorite viewing options based on what genre they watch the most. With genre packs, users can get the channels and content they want without filler channel overload. Packs start at just $34.99 a month.
Those interested in comparing all DirecTV’s channel packages and the new genre packs can check them out here.
What is Sling?
Sling is another streaming service to consider if you want to access top-rated TV channels like the History Channel. Though no free trial is available to new subscribers, those who commit to a paid plan get half off the first month and one month free of AMC+.
Both the Sling Orange plan and the Sling Blue plan are normally $45.99 a month, but with the current promotion, Sling users will pay just $23 a month for the first month.
For those who wish to access channels from both the Sling Blue and Sling Orange plans can do so by signing up for the Orange + Blue plan, which combines the best of both plans for just $60.99 a month ($30.50 for the first month).
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
A report from the National Weather Service was issued on Tuesday at 2:18 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 2:45 p.m. for Lee and Russell counties.
The storms are forecast to bring pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) and wind gusts of up to 40 mph.
“At 2:18 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm near Uchee, or 12 miles north of Hurtsboro, moving south at 10 mph,” states the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”
The alert is for Uchee and Marvyn.
The weather service states, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. Torrential rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways. Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe shelter inside a building or vehicle.”
Shielding yourself from approaching lightning: Expert safety guidelines
Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.
To guarantee your safety in the midst of a thunderstorm, take into account the following recommendations:
Lightning safety plan:
When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
Stay vigilant by monitoring the sky for ominous signs and listening for the telltale sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s a clear indication of nearby lightning.
Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.
Indoors safety measures:
Once you’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.
Wait for the all-clear:
After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.
When indoor shelter isn’t available:
If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:
Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don’t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.
In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.
Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall
Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff can be a result of saturated ground and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the weather service to stay safe in heavy rain:
Beware of rapid water flow:
Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.
Maintain safe driving distances:
Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.
Slow down and stay cautious:
On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.
Choose your lane wisely:
Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.
Prioritize visibility
Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.
Watch out for slippery roads:
Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.
Mind your windshield wipers:
Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.
If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.
By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.
Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
A new festival in Huntsville left many people jarred by the lack of options inside a large amphitheater.
The Orion Amphitheater hosted its first Rocket City Pickle Fest on Sunday, but many attendees left disappointed.
The Orion touted pickle-inspired eats, all things pickled and pickle merchandise on its online description of the 6-hour event. More than 1,000 people bought $25 ticket to celebrate the food, with taxes and fees pushing the price close to $30 a person.
Coworkers Angelique Hangartner and Rachel Kinley were excited to see the Orion dill-iver, but they say it just seemed like a regular market that happens around Huntsville, which are usually free.
“I saw some very generic vendor booths,” Hargartner said. “The art booths it was nothing different from whatever they do on the square or general artist markets. And even then, it was just a handful of them.”
They say there were two vendors who were selling pickled food, but they were mostly sold out by the time that Hargartner arrived. There were about 12 art vendors, and only some of them had pickle-related items.
“I was actually expecting something more along the lines of samples, thinking that maybe the $30 entry fee was going to be for samples at vendor tents,” Kinley said. “And I guess there was none of that. I’m not saying I needed free stuff necessarily, but that $30 entry fee was quite a bit for just to be able to walk around and listen to some good music.”
Hargartner has gone to a strawberry festival, peach festival and tomato festival and was expecting to see something along those lines. She said that she and her coworkers weren’t the ones who found themselves in a pickle. They work non-traditional hours at a restaurant, so it was really important that they found a time to spend together.
“We were planning to make that a work group thing for us to all do together, since we don’t get to all be off at the same time and do something,” Hargartner said. “We were really excited to actually have a day that we could get together and do that, and we’re kind of let down by it. It’s very rare that we get to coordinate like that.”
Social media responds
People in many local Huntsville groups on social media agreed with them, including users on the city’s subreddit page. Several posts with hundreds of likes show disappointment with the event.
One user was upset by the “palpable lack of effort.” They wrote that “had you had local farmers as vendors, appropriate gimmicky food options, more cocktail options, cheaper tickets, and maybe a DJ dressed as a pickle, this would have passed with a solid C rating, maybe even C+ rating.”
‘We hear your concerns’
Orion Amphitheater General Manager Alex Craig has heard your experiences. He released the following statement on the event:
“We put Rocket City Pickle Fest together with the hope of celebrating all things pickled in a fun, creative way. We understand that the event did not live up to some guests’ expectations, and we hear your concerns. We’re taking the feedback seriously and already talking through how we can bring back a better Pickle Fest in years to come. That said, we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who came out in the heat and rain and stuck around to support the 10 local artists and bands who took the stage throughout the day. The feedback we’ve received is helping us think through how we approach future events, and we’re committed to learning from it.”
While many were pondering the pickle presence, they did relish in the great music by local bands.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
A juvenile is in custody in connection with a morning shooting during a robbery in Tuscaloosa.
Police responded about 9:40 a.m. Tuesday to a report of a shooting in the 3300 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.
When officers arrived, the 38-year-old victim said the suspect robbed and shot him. He sustained a non-life-threatening wound, said Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit Capt. Marty Sellers.
After speaking with witnesses and the victim, investigators were able to identify a possible suspect, Sellers said, and took the juvenile into custody a short time later.
“After the initial investigation was completed, it was found that the suspect was given money by the victim,” Sellers said. “The suspect then came back and demanded more money.”
When the victim refused, the suspect shot the victim and took additional money.
The suspect is being held in the Tuscaloosa County Jail.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
Dear Eric: My wife and daughter have not gotten along well since my daughter hit middle school (she’s now about to turn 18). Part of the problem is that they are very much alike. Both of them have OCD, but they don’t obsess over the same things, which often leaves them at odds. They are both in therapy, and both therapists have recommended family counseling, but my daughter has refused.
I was driving with my daughter yesterday and out of nowhere, she told me what her problem with her mother is: “The only things I know about her are her favorite foods and that she has to control everything. You’re an open book, Dad: warts and all. Mom won’t share anything about herself that is even slightly embarrassing, or that makes her seem human.”
When I asked her if she had shared this with her mother, she replied that it was too late for that now.
For the most part, what my daughter said was true. My wife was a bit of a “wild child.” The OCD didn’t present until she was older. Now, she is very much closed off about her past. She says it’s to protect my daughter from making the same mistakes. My question is, do I share what my daughter said with my wife? Telling this to my wife would hurt her deeply. I know they love each other, but when my daughter goes off to college, I feel that they will just drift apart.
– Stuck Dad
Dear Dad: I really feel for your wife – she’s in a “cursed if you do, cursed if you don’t” position. For many parents, it can be particularly heartbreaking when the things you do with the best intentions, end up being the exact things that create a problem in your relationship with your child.
I think your daughter is being a bit unfair to your wife. Maybe it’s a by-product of where she is developmentally; maybe it’s simply that aspects of her personality and your wife’s are like oil and water. However, you’re in a unique position to help her see where she’s being short-sighted. The statement that she made to you is exactly the kind of thing that a therapist can help your family navigate. Talk with her about what she shared and gently remind her that what she’s lamenting is a treatable problem. See if she’ll agree to a set number of sessions with a counselor, say three to start. She may believe that it’s too late to address this rift, but as she grows and matures, she will likely grow to regret not trying.
You should also tell your daughter that you’re planning to share some of what she shared with your wife. And then, figure out what of that feedback is actionable and have a conversation with your wife about it. I doubt it’s prudent, at this point, to tell her everything. However, if she can hear this feedback as an invitation to vulnerability, and an indication of your daughter’s curiosity, it can set them on a healthier track.
Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
Dear Eric: I am a 55-year-old single female. I often get asked out on dates with men that I am not interested in. I recently met a man, and we have been going on great dates. I really enjoyed hanging out with him until his sister-in-law came to me and said things like, “don’t like him; don’t catch feelings for him. Just have fun with him and get what you can from him.”
I still like hanging out with him. Should I tell him what she said? Or just keep it to myself and just keep my guard up?
– Dating Dilemma
Dear Dating: A lot depends on whether you have a pre-existing relationship with the sister-in-law. If she’s just coming to you out of the blue and giving you dire warnings, it doesn’t mean she’s wrong, necessarily, but there’s no reason for you to trust her. How do you know she has your best interests in mind?
So, keep your guard up but also talk about it with the man you’ve been dating. Maybe he has more insight, maybe he’ll have a response that gives you a different view of him, maybe she’s completely right. If you’re getting to know someone in a romantic context and their relative is talking trash about them, it’s very helpful to ask them why that might be.
Lastly, think about what you want from this relationship, what you’re expecting and what you want to give to it. As you gain more information – good, bad, neutral – it’s important to weigh it against your own needs and expectations. Maybe he’s fine for you for now; maybe you’ll discover you want something more. Staying clear-eyed can help you avoid getting hurt.
Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
