Dear John: I'm a 30-year-old male. Six months ago, I met an awesome woman online. She was upfront regarding her past, and so was I. To make a long story short, we fell in love, and I decided to take a risk relocating from Charlotte, N.C., to Atlanta. We have been living together for two months, and things are OK. It's just that I am finding myself putting more into the relationship than she, plus I am overwhelmed with needing her attention. I thought women are usually the needy ones. — Something Is Missing, in Atlanta

Dear Something Is Missing: In relationships, men and women often take turns being the needy partner. In your case, your neediness stems from the fact that you are not yet comfortable with your new surroundings. If you were, believe me, you would not be complaining.

First off, establish some independence. Be sure to take all your personal belongings out of their moving boxes and display at least some of your things in your new home. Learn your new neighborhood on foot: Go into stores you might not have considered entering, discover the local parks, clubs, libraries and cafes. Join a tennis or softball league. In other words, make your new home your home as well. Ask your girlfriend if she'll join you on some of these expeditions. In this manner, you'll learn what each other enjoys, and therefore, further appreciate each other in new situations.

Next, have a candid discussion with your girlfriend about your concerns. By letting her know upfront what she can expect from you and you expect from her, you will be laying the groundwork for a stronger relationship. Both of you may modify your needs and expectations over time, and that's OK. After all, for relationships to grow, change is necessary. But clear expectations are great expectations — without the heartaches that occur from miscommunication or wrong assumptions.

Dear John: My sister's wedding is only a month away. Recently, at a shower in her honor, I overheard two of her bridesmaids dissing the whole event. They felt the bridesmaids' dresses were tacky. In fact, one of the women went so far as to say that my sister's gown was "too good for her." I was so angry, but if I tell my sister what I know, it may stress her out even more. Should I keep quiet or let her know so she can get rid of these so-called friends before the big event? — Protective Sibling, in St. Louis

Dear Sibling: Now, and up until the rice is thrown at your sister's honeymoon departure, your first priority is to keep your sister on an even emotional keel. Telling her what you overheard will in no way help her pre-wedding emotional state. Most brides are already going through a myriad of doubts about their lives (Will I live happily ever after? Will my dress look great on me? Will my hair behave on the big day? More importantly, will my family?) and the last thing she needs is to doubt the loyalty of her friends. For now, chalk it up to petty jealousy.

True friendship is demonstrated in acts of kindness throughout the lives of those involved. After the wedding, when calm returns to your sister's life, there will be many incidents that will test your sister's friendships. Enjoy the wedding, and let time reveal the truth.

John Gray is the author of "Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus." If you have a question, write to John in care of this newspaper or by email by going to www.marsvenus.com. All questions are kept anonymous and will be paraphrased. To find out more about John Gray and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.