I think you look gorgeous and I also understand the guy that criticizes you once he finds out he is dull compared to you. My ex is a great example. When I brought him home my family was speechless. What in the hell was I doing with him. He had not money, not even a car. A minimal job that was exciting to me, and lived with a married couple in their attic. I had been married before, had three children, made good money as an RN, lived in a huge newly built home and my family had money, college degrees, and class (for the most part). I said I loved him. I met in in a Bible study and fell for him regardless of his status. When we married he upped his game and was a wonderful husband, started earning more money, got a car and I guess grew up. Long story short , after 29 years of marriage we divorced over his drinking and DUIs. He is now jobless, has no vehicle or drivers license for 5 years (and rents a room from his “girlfriend”. He’s back at square one, it just rarely works when you date and marry down. I just didn’t see it at the time. Your friend is very smart.