Daughter weighs reaching out to father after silence

Dear Abby: My parents divorced when I was an infant. My father had weekend visitations with me sporadically. I was super angry at him for leaving and blamed him for not being around while I was abused by my stepfather. I haven’t seen my father in person since I was 18.

As a 40-year-old woman with kids, I’m thinking about reaching out. My kids are curious about their grandfather. I’m curious about his life. How do I keep my anger in check and not demand an answer for every bad deed on his part? Is it worth it? The rest of his family doesn’t speak to him, either. — Revisiting History In Tennessee

Dear Revisiting: Have you ever tried discussing the reason for the failure of your parents’ marriage with the other relatives? If you haven’t, you should. If your mom stood silently by while you were abused by her second husband, she bears some responsibility for the abuse.

Because you feel the need to know about your father’s life, reach out and ask him. Your chances of getting the answers you’re looking for will improve if you refrain from doing it with a chip on your shoulder.

Dear Abby: I have two sons, 28 and 23. My 23-yearold has pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified. He has always struggled in school, with friends, society, jobs and in dealing with his emotions.

My older son and his fiancee tell me I should force him to go out on his own — “make him snap out of it.” I have tried to explain his condition, but they don’t listen because it’s not considered a severe disability disease. They are convinced he will be fine and that I need to stop caring for him. My mother and brother, who have been very involved in my son’s life, feel I’m doing the right thing by looking for a home where he will have his own separate apartment.

How do I get through to these insistent individuals that I am doing what is best for him? I have supported my oldest son and his fiancee and son extensively over the years, while my youngest son never asks for financial help. I try to give equally of myself to both of my children, and I can’t understand why they want to see my youngest suffer. Please advise. — Caring Mom In New Hampshire

Dear Caring Mom: Your older son and his fiancee may have taken the stance they have because of jealousy, greed or ignorance. Your younger son should be forced out on his own so he will “snap out of it”? You are a responsible and protective parent, doing what you feel is right for a son with challenges.

Have you considered what his future will be if something should happen to you? Start a discussion with your son’s doctor about what supportive services are available should it become necessary, so you and he will be prepared.