Expert: Don - 12/22/2008

Question
I have a lovely, sweet, gentle, caring boyfriend, who I am about to move in with. A week ago, I caught up with some old friends who I hadn't seen for a long time, and we ended up getting ridiculously, stupidly drunk. I was talking to my friend about the fact that I was very nervous about moving in, as it was a big step and commitment. Afer having that conversation, my friend pointed out that another guy who had joined us was showing and interest in me. In my completely hammered state, I threw myself at him, and ended up going back to his place - I don't even remember how we got there. But it all happened. I am now racked with incredible guilt, made even wose by the fact that this has really clarified for me what a wonderful man I have in my boyfriend, and that I am definitely ready for this step. I have decided not to tell him as I know that I could never, ever repeat this unspeakable act, and I couldn't bear hurting him just to relieve the burden from him - however, will the painful guilt that is overwhelming me ever go away? How will I be able to live with this? I have never done anything like this before in my life, and I now feel about 2 inches tall and horribly immoral. I feel like I can never enjoy anything again as there will always be this at the back of my mind, reminding me what a horrible person I am. Help me.

Answer
No the pain from the guilt will not overwhelm you and yes it will go away, all it takes is time. You already know what you did is horrible and now you just need to forgive yourself and let time make the pain go away.

Just stay true to your boyfriend from now on and you'll feel better eventually.