The Columbus Dispatch

Sisters who won’t visit hurt brother’s feelings

- — Baffled Brother in Phoenix Planning Ahead — — Blabbermou­th’s Wife Write to Dear Abby at Universal Press Syndicate, in care of The Columbus Dispatch, P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069; for a reply, enclose a selfaddres­sed, stamped envelope. Or visit

etc. Their kids love me. It’s a shame I may never see them again. What should I do?

I agree that their reluctance to come to you might mean that you won’t see them again. The time has come to ask your sisters to level with you. When you do, “remind” them that although you love them, your health no longer permits you to do all the traveling.

You can’t force them to make the effort, and if they are unwilling after talking, you may have to accept that this is the way things are.

My elderly parents are opposites. Dad is self-absorbed and has no moral compass. Mom is a Christian woman who is loved by many. When they die, Mom will be missed. When Dad goes, we will mostly feel relief.

Would it be acceptable to have a large, lovely funeral for Mom, but for Dad, just a small family service?

Not only would it be acceptable, it would also be practical since few people pay respects to someone who isn’t worthy of respect.

I have been married to my husband for 57 years. He has been a good provider and helps me often with errands. But he has one serious failing: He can’t keep a secret.

When I tell him something personal and ask him to keep it private, he invariably tells his friends during coffee dates or phone calls. Why does he do this? I have decided to keep anything I don’t want broadcast to myself.

I can’t guess why he would betray your confidence. But I do think you have arrived at a wise solution to your problem. He can’t shoot off his mouth if he doesn’t have the ammunition.

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