When/How Does $ Affect/Influence Your Relationship

Money plays a very important role in a relationship. I'm sure many won't date someone who is jobless and financially in trouble. Many will go for someone who's financially stable but how and when could we find out one's financial status? How would that affect your relationship ?

When I met the father of my son, I was forced to give up my good job and financially rely on him. In Arab culture, man is the provider, no question about it. He took care of all our needs and wants ..and more. In the eyes of many, I was very lucky In their culture, we had to signed a pre-nup agreement...how much he will give me on that day we sign that contract that binds us together and how much he will give me when we divorce...all in black and white...loud and clear

When we unexpectedly file for divorce, I waved everything, just want everything to be done and over with...lucky him but he insisted on paying everything that we need after the divorce...housing, food, allowances and everything my son needs. That sounds really nice...but we had to share custody of my son and I had to follow his rules it didn't work for me...I want my freedom and live my life the way I want. After countless fights and arguments, I finally live my life ...got a good job,got a raise, make my own money, pay my own house, spend on myself and son...freedom and fun...feels great

When I met my jerk, he knows I'm not rich and financially not in his level. It was never an issue, in fact, it was one of the factor that brought us closer. He always insisted on paying for everything. I buy him some presents but he always surprises me with thoughtful little presents and expensive gifts when he was here and even after he left. He would bring me many presents that he bought on his trips and bring them to me when he comes here. He paid for our flights and hotels when my son and I went for a 2 months holiday. Even sent me copies of his credit cards and IDs in case I would need them. He paid the rent when I moved to this new house and insisted on buying new furniture as my house warming/birthday/Christmas present.

I'm not the materialistic type, I would date a penniless man as long as he's trying to find a job I will live in a tent with the man I love as long as we are together. My jerk is very open when discussing about finances and tend to give me advise on how to be smart when it comes to money. He makes more money than I do, he's ok with it, it doesn't bother him but I'm not ok with it and it bothers me a lot. I feel bound to all those financial things he invested in this relationship...he said he's happy giving me things and feels good to see me happy... as long as I pay him in back rubs...and the going rate is 1 Peso/minute...that means I will be paying him for life This is one of the reason why I'm still in this LDR. Don't get me wrong, I love my jerk. My point is that...those presents and financial support he gave me never represent money or security to me at all...I can buy what I need and what I want and don't have to feel obligated to anyone. It's just that in so many ways it make me feel that he truly cares about me.

How much does your love cost? Don't mean this in a bad way... I'm just being myself..crazy