I wanted to share something I’ve been struggling with internally and see if anyone can relate or offer advice. I come from a religious and conservative society (like the Middle East, India, or parts of Asia) where relationships and marriage are deeply rooted in tradition and societal expectations.

Lately, the idea of sharing a partner with another man has been consuming my thoughts, and it’s been difficult to process. It’s not something that’s common or accepted where I’m from, and even entertaining the idea feels like a betrayal of everything I’ve been taught about relationships.

I find myself torn between modern perspectives on relationships and the cultural values I was raised with. On one hand, I want to embrace open-mindedness and respect people’s choices, but on the other hand, I feel conflicted and even disturbed when I imagine myself in such a situation.

What’s worse is that these thoughts feel isolating. I can’t talk to anyone around me because they wouldn’t understand, and I’m afraid of being judged or ridiculed. But the more I think about it, the more I realize how much it challenges my sense of identity, masculinity, and self-worth.

How do you deal with conflicting feelings like this? Has anyone else grown up in a conservative or religious culture and found themselves grappling with thoughts that clash with what they’ve been taught? I’d appreciate any insights or advice.