Levels of Complication

Level One: FDR and I are separated by 450 miles of distance.
We have learned over the last three years to finds ways to see each other regularly and have the technology to talk all the time. It is still difficult, but only one more year left.

Level Two: FDR is in a MD/PhD program.
His time is precious. My time with him is precious. It has taken time, but I truly have adjusted and respect that I am #2 priority because the demand for attention and commitment is so severe.

Level Three: Our wedding is next year.
Planning a wedding is stressful and all other complications or issues are magnified because everyone is getting involved with their opinions and advice. This also means that if FDR disagree, somehow the issues of disagreement are somehow never going to be resolved for the rest of our lives (as people so abrasively advised me).

Level Four: Families be advised to butt out.
The future inlaws expressed their hurt when FDR comes to visit that they are not included to spend time. I am sure it is hard to understand and respect that they are now #3. They have been bumped two spots. However, they also need to understand that being a part of a family does not necessarily mean that constant contact and full disclosure of relationships are assumed. I was raised as a lone wolf (I speak to my grandfather and half sisters here and there when I can) and esstentially on my own. When things come up our family is there with no questions asked. FDR's seems to be the former...It may not be to others, but it is really for foreign to me, so when I hear it I am extra sensitive and protective of my life and they way I live it. The rejection of that involvement does not mean a rejection of the family. Comprendo?

Level Five: Believers vs. Nonbelievers?
Now here comes the reason for this post. My future mother-in-law express that FDR's father and her are worried that he is a "believer" and I am a "nonbeliever." It confused me for a second because I thought she was talking about him being a dreamer or an idealist...hahaha I am so naive. No, she meant because I am an atheist. Oh boy, well I wasn't about to set her straight with what his beliefs are because it could potentially be devestating for them (FDR's dad is a pastor). I have tried to be respectful, but somehow they think that he doesn't attend church because I want him to stay home with me. Hmmm...what? Makes no sense. If you are a religious person and were devoted to church, I don't think I would anyone keeping me from going. Just because I reject theism, does not mean I am not any less spiritual or have morality.

Level Six: WTF will it end? 
So how are these levels resolved? By when? And by who? Feeling kinda lost right now, but I figure over time I will find the right balance of senstivity and thick skin. I am who I am. Regardless of any bs I have just listed, FDR and I are on the same page. That is what takes priority.