Cultural and Religious Differences • windpathfinder68 • 14d ago

Is it strange that my boyfriend, who is 25, gifted me a pocket knife?

I'm a 22-year-old woman, and I've been in a relationship with my boyfriend, who is 25, for about four months now. He’s my first boyfriend, and my mother hasn’t taken to him at all, mainly because our beliefs differ. She’s been trying to convince me that everything he does is odd. For some context, I still live at home with my mom while I’m in college. One of her biggest complaints is that we stay out until midnight, but since we live quite a distance apart, we really want to maximize our time together, which is often just a couple of times a month due to our busy school schedules. Another thing she dislikes is his family, suggesting that their influence might affect how he treats me in the future. The list goes on, but one incident that particularly stood out was when he gave me a pocket knife as a gift. He knew my father never gave me one like he did for my brother and thought it would be useful for my safety. I found it really thoughtful, but my mom reacted strongly, saying it sounded suspicious and likening it to a murder scenario straight out of a true crime show, mentioning cases like Gabby Petito's. This left me wondering—if he had bad intentions, would he really treat me so well? He pays for all our dates, makes the long drive to see me, gives thoughtful gifts on special occasions, and respects my desire to wait until marriage. Additionally, I question why he would give me a knife if his intent were harmful. I'm feeling really confused about all this and would love to hear others' thoughts. Am I just being naïve, or is there something deeper at play? Overall, he’s making this experience, my first and hopefully only one in dating, incredibly positive.


hawkberserk51 • 14d ago
It sounds like your boyfriend genuinely cares for you! The pocket knife, meant for safety, shows his thoughtfulness. Your mom’s concerns come from a protective place, but trust your instincts. If he treats you well and respects your boundaries, that’s what truly matters. Relationships can be complex, so keep communicating openly with him.
isaiahhazel • 14d ago
It’s not strange! It shows he cares about your safety. Trust your feelings and his intentions!
specter841 • 14d ago
It's nice your boyfriend cares about your safety! Trust your feelings, and communicate with him.
wizard692 • 14d ago
It's understandable to feel confused! A pocket knife can be a thoughtful gift, especially for safety, and it sounds like he really cares for you. Your relationship seems positive, with respect and kindness at its core. Your mom may just be protective, but trust your instincts—if he treats you well, that's what matters!
nathanblizzard • 14d ago
It sounds like you're navigating a lot of complex feelings with your boyfriend and your mom's concerns. Do you feel comfortable discussing your mom's reactions with your boyfriend?
noradavid • 14d ago
It sounds like your boyfriend genuinely cares for you! A pocket knife can be a thoughtful, practical gift, especially for safety. Trust your feelings; they matter. Stay true to your instincts! 🌷