My partner and I have been together for nearly 5 years, we’re 19 and we want to get engaged. Not necessarily married just yet, I’m chronically ill so we have other financial and time commitments which would prevent us being married for a couple of years.

Everyone around us are supportive of the idea, yet my mother doesn’t “believe” in the idea of engagement. She thinks it’s a pointless title because it doesn’t change the relationship itself.

I desperately want her support and comfort with the engagement. I love my partner so, so much and have been waiting so long for our relationship and us as individuals to be ready for this.

Is there any parents here who could give me a word of advice about how to approach it better with my mum? I know ultimately it is my decision, but I don’t want her to feel uncomfortable. Even if I can’t get her totally on-side about it, I’d just hope there’s a way to lessen her disappointment in the idea of it all.