Friday afternoon procrastination waffle...
Relationship = a blanket term that has been morphed by stupid cultural ideals that say we've got to find a single mate and live happily ever after.
In reality we're in relationship with many people for many reasons - some sexual, some sensual, some professional, some power/control/codependent, some family etc etc.
Culturally, we also put more importance on x-factor idealism than true community and choose our idols really badly. (Rhianna? Various footballers? Fashionistas?
) Instead of being tapped into for their wise counsel, elders in society are sidelined as having nowt to offer. This kinda thinking stinks - and results in chaos. (The concept of gangs are a form of tribalism is cool but it caves in on itself because the inexperienced youth leads the youth.)
Answer = there isn't one, to assume there is amounts to ageism. It's totally fine for an 18 year old to be in 'relationship' with someone of 80 in my world.
I've had (sexual) relationships with people 16 years my senior if that helps?
Off now, still $hit loads to do before I can leave.