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DILBERT ScottAdams PEARLSBEFORESWINE StephanPastis PICKLES BrianCrane BABYBLUES JerryScott&RickKirkman PHOEBEANDHERUNICORN DanaSimpson ZITS JerryScott&JimBorgman SHERMAN'SLAGOON JimToomey ARGYLESWEATER ScottHilburn BIZARRO DanPiraro DEARAMY»Mypartner of three years and I are very happy together and love each other. We are in our mid-20s, live together and have discussed future plans, although neither of us feels ready for mar- riage yet. We both agree that in the next five to 10 years, we'd like to be married with kids. My qualm is this: He doesn't think that a lifelong commitment is realistic. He thinks that after an unspecified amount of time divorce or unhappiness are inevitable and that no two people can sustain a happy relationship "forever." I almost want to ask if he sees himself married (to anyone) and keep- ing separate retirement accounts — but he might actually think that's a good idea. Can you suggest a more level-headed ap- proach? I want to know if I'm wasting my time with someone who does not want the same future I do. There are good reasons people split up, but I think making this com- mitment with an exit plan creates a self-fulfilling prophecy. What do you think? —Anxious DEAR ANXIOUS » Your guy has one thing right: Unhappiness is an absolute guarantee — in life and certainly in marriage. If he is freaked out by the mere prospect of unhappiness and planning to bolt (or be abandoned by you), then he has a problem bigger than mere pessimism. There is what you call "exit-strategy" plan- ning, and then there is planning for the down- side. The downside is inevitable, but an exit is avoidable. If you fully intend to marry this man, then yes — separate finances and separate saving for retirement is definitely called for (although wealth you accumulate during the marriage may already be considered shared marital assets). More important is the question of why you would cast your lot in with someone who has declared his own self-fulfilling prophesy. Sometimes, all that holds a marriage together is the belief in the commitment you and your spouse share and your devotion to the institution, itself, along with your own memory of the optimistic and loving attitude with which you both entered it. If you two do move closer toward marrying, you should both commit to premarital counseling, big time. DEAR AMY » Regarding your suggestion to "Torn," whose obnoxious friend invited him but not his wife to his "spe- cial" birthday party, I would reply with, 'I'm glad I'm important to you. But my wife is far more important to me than you are." — Jo DEAR JO » Great response. I wish I'd thought of it. Should a person marry and also plan for their exit? You can contact Amy Dickinson via email: askamy@tribpub.com and follow her on Twitter @askingamy. Amy Dickinson Ask Amy Sudoku Instructions:Theobjectistoplacethe numbers1to9intheemptysquaresso thateachrow,eachcolumnandeach 3x3boxcontainsthenumberonlyonce. AnswertoPreviousPuzzle CelebrityCipher ByLuisCampos Instructions:CelebrityCiphercryptogramsarecreatedfromquotationsbyfamouspeople, pastandpresent.Eachletterinthecipherstandsforanother. NEACrossword Libra(Sept.23-Oct.23) — You'll find inspiration if you travel or attend a conference or trade show. Visiting new places will spark a creative concept. Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) — Financial gains are possible if you are proactive. Go over con- tracts and agreements carefully. Property deals should be con- sidered as a source of income. Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) — You will end up in an awkward position if someone you care about feels stifled. Trying to win every discussion or top any achievement will not lead to happiness. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Take it easy. You need rest and relaxation if you want to be at your best. Some quality downtime will help you regroup. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — You will be the star of the show. Others will be drawn to your sense of humor. When possible, include younger family members in your plans. Ro- mance is in the stars. Pisces (Feb. 20-March 20) — You will be resentful if a fam- ily member is being secretive. In order to reduce the tension, you should initiate an honest dialogue without being critical or overbearing. Aries (March 21-April 19) — Love is in a high cycle. A social or cultural event will give you a chance to meet compatible per- sonal or professional partners. Let your energy and magnetism lead the way. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Someone from your past will cause you to rethink a situation you are currently facing. If you have strayed too far from your intended target, consider set- ting a new goal. Gemini (May 21-June 20) — If emotions are running high, you should take a breather and rethink your position. Shopping, sightseeing or visiting a friend will help you put your situation into proper perspective. Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Lending or borrowing money or possessions is discouraged. Take a closer look at your bank account. Keep some funds in reserve to cover an unexpected expense. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Make the most of your good will and generosity and offer your services to a charitable organi- zation. Your charm and sincerity will encourage people to join your cause. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — You may feel like pampering yourself, but remember that overindulgence or overspending will put you at a disadvantage. Don't let your temper get the better of you. Horoscope By Eugenia Last THURSDAY, OCT. 1 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2015 REDBLUFFDAILYNEWS.COM |YOURDAILYBREAK | 3 B