Ask the Expert

Dear CMR,

Why do people automatically assign people to zones like the “friend zone”?  Why do we sometimes change the zones we put them in?

Signed, A Podcast Fan

Dear CMR,

Do you think it is possible for two people to stay friends after a romantic relationship has ended between them? If so, what does a healthy friendship look like? 

Signed, B.

Dear CMR,

Suppose two people are dating in which there is a mutual commitment before God for marriage in the future. Is it wrong for a man to treat her with the same love and care that he would his wife while only dating? 

Thanks, 

Timing is Everything

Dear CMR,

I am in friendships that I am worried might be manipulative. What are some ways that I can recognize manipulation within friendships or relationships?

Signed, 

Curious and Questioning

Dear CMR:

Should I ever date someone that I know I’m not attracted to? I’m worried that it may set the other person up for heartbreak if I do.

Signed,

Willing, But Unsure

Dear CMR,

This is a two-part question: My friend and I got into an interesting discussion the other day about Halloween and whether Christians should engage or not. Things got heated and we ended angry with each other and frustrated at the conversation. First, can you give some advice on how we might reconcile after the blowup? Second, can you share thoughts about Halloween and how Christians should or should not engage?

Signed, Slightly Spooked.

Dear CMR,

I hate conflict, and any confrontations make me physically stressed out. I usually try to avoid it. However, I know I need to have a talk with someone I love because our conflict is just sitting there and simmering, but I don’t know how to start. 

Signed, Conflicted and Stressed

Dear CMR,

How do you know when you’re ready to get married?

Signed, Almost There