How can I encourage my son-in-law to start a family, by using the space in my home. My daughter wants a baby and he does not? It is causing untold grief.

Many thanks, M.G., England

Karen's reply:

There is a strict ethical principle that Space Clearing is NEVER used to manipulate anyone's energies, even if you feel it would be for their own good. It is always done for the highest good of everyone concerned, not just to fulfill the wishes of one person.

You do not say whether your daughter and son-in-law are living in your home or whether they live in their own place. If they live in their own place then your daughter could space clear it and this would facilitate the best possible outcome for everyone. If they live in your place then you can space clear with this intention, but it wouldn't be right to include their personal living space unless they both invite you to do so.

Agreement about having or not having children is a a core decision in a marriage and it really needs to be decided between the couple without any outside influences (and preferably before marriage!). If it is causing as much distress as you say, marriage guidance counselling may be required.