My girlfriend is a stripper and every night she works I suffer. What do I do?
Here are the facts:
I met her in a club about 6 months ago and we hit if off hard. I am no fool, so I was very careful and suspicious about EVERYTHING at the beginning, but things have smoothed out and we are in the beginning stages of a very mutually respectful and loving relationship. In fact, she has been much more consistent about her feelings, dedication, and respect than I have. I have learned a lot from her with regard to openness, and nonjudgemental love. Believe me, she is not hustling me, there are no hidden motives for either of us - just trying to make this relationship work. I think she is the most beautiful, kind, warm, exciting, wonderful woman I have ever met. She's perfect for me. I am a realistic guy, but I never want to leave her, and she feels the same way.
But I can't take her job. I am in pain every night she works, which can be up to 5, even 6 nights per week. She does not engage in sexual acts, or drugs, or alcohol, or anything else. The simple truth is that I don't like the idea that she shows off her body, engages guys in a seductive way to get paid, I'm just jealous. But I can't rationalize any way that I should not be. I think it's my prerogative to be possessive.
Please tell me how I can feel differently. It seems she truly needs to be doing this to get through school, pay her bills, etc. We have both tried to find some kind of real job for her to do, but either the economy or lack of degree is making this impossible. She understands that this is hard for me, but she does not understand why I am so jealous.
Please let me know where I am going wrong here - I need a ledge to stand on.