To whom this concern,
I plan to marry a Chinese woman who is 35 and I am 30. I have lived in China for 5 years, great job, secure, and fluent in Chinese. However, the family who I have not met yet is completely against the prospect because of the age difference. The stereotype that all foreigners are playboys and not safe after the age of 45 is being implied here. Has anyone in the Haole Hubby Club been through a similar experience before? Looking forward to your reply.
Best Regards,
Matthew
China
This post was submitted by matt p.
Matthew,
My Taiwanese father-in-law initially objected as well. While my wife is four years my senior, that was not an issue. The greater issues were, understandably, that I might take her far away (I did) and that many foreigners are creeps.
Looking back, I am glad we did not move ahead with arraignments until after “Ba” agreed. He did so after I spent most evenings for several weeks helping move inventory at his small traditional grocery store, provided limited assistance with a family funeral, and the pastor from my (local to Taiwan) church and his wife talked with him in a semi-formal discussion that is traditionally done between parents of the couple. The pastor was able to vouch for my character and confirm that the poor reputation of foreign men did not fit me.
We now have children and visit Taiwan every year or so. I am fortunate to have an excellent relationship with my father-in-law.
Gabe
USA