I got confused with loving my stepmother, even though she was abusive. My T explained I loved her but didn't like her and that got me really confused

So, my T taught me the difference between love and like. She asked me to think of someone I liked. I thought of my husband. She then asked, "why do you like him?" I said, "because he's warm, fun, and friendly." I instantly saw (my stepmother was not even one of those :-) the difference.

So, I would start with thinking of someone you like and giving 3 reasons you like them and then applying the "reasons" to your boyfriend. If they fit (my reasons only fit one of my three brothers!) you know your boyfriend is the kind of guy you like being around, just for himself and what he gives to you and the relationship. From that you may or may not work on loving him (if you like) but you'll know you enjoy being with/around him and that's enough "reason" to keep him around :-)

Another way of doing it is listing three characteristics you are working on in your life for yourself (for me I'd like to be warm, wise, and whimsical when I grow up :-) and apply those to others you are with.

Maybe, on the job front, there's "professional" visitor sorts of roles? You know how ministers visit patents in hospitals and stuff, how you go see the old lady? Lots of people hire or might like to hire "companions" like that, people who come sit and chat and do very light "chores" occasionally (make the tea you all are drinking and then clean up the dishes :-)

http://www.simplyhired.com/a/jobs/li...nior+companion