A woman expressed her concerns to Dear Abby when her niece sent a wedding invitation addressed only to her 11-year-old twin daughters, excluding her and her husband. When she reached out to her niece, the niece explained that the wedding was “intimate” and only close family members were invited. Despite efforts to communicate and resolve any issues, the niece continues to exclude her by not inviting her to events and only allowing the girls to attend. The woman feels hurt by her niece’s behavior and worries about maintaining a close relationship between her daughters and her niece.
Dear Abby advises the woman not to send her daughters to the wedding, as it seems like the niece is trying to use them as a way to hurt her. She should not encourage a close relationship between her daughters and someone who is being manipulative and disrespectful. Instead, the woman should address the situation directly with her niece and not engage in any passive-aggressive behavior. It is important not to play into her niece’s game and to stand firm in her decision to protect her daughters from potentially negative interactions.
Another reader writes to Dear Abby seeking advice on how to motivate herself to file for divorce from her unfaithful husband. Despite being separated for four years and moving on, she has not taken the final step of legally ending the marriage. Dear Abby suggests that when the woman is ready to pursue a happier life, perhaps through forming new relationships, she may find the motivation to file for divorce. In the meantime, the woman should seek advice from an attorney to understand any potential risks of remaining married to her husband.
Dear Abby offers advice to readers seeking guidance on a variety of topics, including relationships, family issues, and personal challenges. The column, started by Pauline Phillips and continued by her daughter Abigail Van Buren, provides a platform for individuals to share their concerns and receive support and advice. Readers can submit questions to Dear Abby through the DearAbby.com website or by mail to the Dear Abby address in Los Angeles, CA. The column serves as a resource for those looking for advice on navigating life’s complexities and seeking solutions to their problems.