John Lin
John Lin
Nov 6 · 1 min read

I once dated and married a woman half my age (she was 24, her dad was maybe 5 years older than me — but I looked at least 15 years younger than her dad). It was one of the happiest relationships for me, though, as I knew it would, ended about 3 years later. We were at different life stages. I knew she would want to have kids someday — but only after she got her career further. I didn’t want to have teenagers when I was 60+. She preferred older guys, too. I actually resisted when I found out her age, but she persisted. I had already been married with 2 kids. I told her she didn’t need to be my kids’ mother, they already have one. She was able to enjoy a relationship with them that didn’t have the burden or pressure of being a parent.

I realize myself that I was a much different man when I was in my 20’s and 30’s. I was cocky and a jerk and treated some girlfriends awfully. As I matured, I changed and learned how to show affection and be much more kind. And of course, I had the financial means to travel and go to very nice restaurants, buy thoughtful gifts, etc. Something that guys in their 20’s and 30’s rarely have the means or time to do — much less appreciate the things that build a supportive and happy relationship.

    John Lin

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    John Lin

    Technology innovator, strategist, Architect, parent