Risky dating habits a concern for friend
DEAR ABBY: I’m worried about a close friend I have known for about 10 years. She’s well-educated, independent and familyoriented. She has been online dating for quite a while and continually meets guys who have criminal backgrounds.
She dated one of them on the down low for two years because she was embarrassed by how he behaved in public. The most recent man served a 16-year prison sentence for being involved in a murder.
I have voiced my concerns. I asked her what she’d say to me if the tables were turned, and her responses mimic the concern I show her. I suggested she try a different website or mode of meeting potential partners, but it hasn’t made a difference.
I believe in second chances up to a point, but I’m worried for her safety. Is there anything else I can do to convince her to have safer boundaries? CONCERNED ABOUT CRIMINALS
DEAR CONCERNED: No, you have done enough. Until your friend admits to herself that she’s fishing for trout in the wrong stream, she’ll continue to reel in sharks.
DEAR ABBY: Is it normal for men to sulk or get angry when they don’t get sex when they want it? I’ve been married to my husband for more than 30 years. I run several miles a day and, with all the work I do, I don’t always feel like having sex. Lately, I have been under a lot of stress, so I haven’t been in the mood.
The other night, he did his usual sulking. Then, as he often does, he tossed about in bed, repeatedly and roughly. The whole bed shook. Another night, he stuck his elbow in my ribs to be sure he got my attention.
Sometimes he’ll grab my butt really hard while I’m sleeping. I end up having sex with him so he leaves me alone and I can sleep.
I have tried sleeping in another bed. But then he comes to that room and repeatedly kicks the mattress. If I lock the door, he kicks the door. So, I have sex with him so I can live in peace. Do most men do this when they don’t get sex? SPOUSE SULKING IN THE NORTH
DEAR SPOUSE: You have tolerated this for 30 years? What you have described is spousal abuse. Most men do not behave the way your husband does, bullying and coercing their wives into marital relations. Please discuss this with a licensed mental health professional. His behavior is off the charts, and you need more help than I can give you in a letter.
DEAR ABBY: How do you tell a welldressed, sophisticated woman that she has a booger or a hair hanging out of her nose? I have encountered this problem, and I am embarrassed for them. BARB IN CALIFORNIA
DEAR BARB: Take the woman aside and give her the news privately. While she may be embarrassed, I’m sure she would also be grateful that you cared enough to clue her in.